Working in Canada during the summer vacations

Summer vacation in Canada usually begins at the end of June and lasts until the beginning of September. During this period, international students have an extended break and many take advantage of the time off to work and secure support for the following semester. 

While, in 2024, the Canadian government established work regulations for international students while in academic session, this time we will discuss work opportunities, for a maximum of 40 hours per week off and on campus, during regularly scheduled breaks (such as summer vacation).

Read this guide to the end and take note of the jobs you can get and the hourly pay. Let's get started. 

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Summer jobs in Canada

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If you are looking for summer employment, you can rest assured that there are plenty of options in Canada. For example, retail sales, landscaping and coffee shop jobs are often in high demand during this season. The Canada Job Bank has, as of the date of this publication, positions in:

• Retail Sales Associate, with an average salary of $16.50 CAD per hour. Day, evening and weekend shifts, and high demand in apparel, grocery and technology stores.
• Landscape laborer, with an average hourly wage of $20.00 CAD. Fixed weekday hours and good demand in parks, gardens and green space maintenance.
• Barista/Coffee Waiter, with an average salary of $16.00 CAD per hour (+ tips), morning and afternoon shifts and moderate demand in coffee shops and restaurants.
• Camp counselor, with an average hourly wage of $17.50 CAD, day shifts and outdoor activities and high demand in summer programs for children and youth.
• Sports Activities Coordinator, with an average hourly salary of $18.20 CAD, evening and weekend hours and a good demand in recreation centers and sports clubs.

As you can see, these jobs offer competitive incomes and flexible schedules, and are ideal for students who need to earn extra money to support themselves and gain work experience in Canada.

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Tips for a smooth return to school after summer work 

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After this excellent opportunity to work, accumulate work experience and save money, it is important to be well organized for a smooth return to school, since the government established time regulations for students during the academic session and this must be fully complied with once the summer is over. 

Here are some key tips for adjusting back to work while you are in session:

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1. Choose a job with flexible hours

• Opt for jobs that allow you to adjust your schedule as the start of the semester approaches. 
• Jobs in retail, coffee shops and landscaping often offer flexible shifts.

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2. Plan your time in advance

• Establish a work schedule that does not affect their rest or preparation for back to school. 
• If you work long hours in the summer, make sure you have a few days off before returning to school.

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3. Take advantage of the job to improve your professional profile.

• Search for jobs related to your field of study to gain relevant experience. 
• If you work in customer service, value improving your communication (language) and teamwork skills, this is appreciated by Canadian employers and the government.

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4. Be sure to comply with labor regulations

• International students may work 24 hours per week off campus while classes are in session. 
• It is during summer vacation that they can work unlimited hours off campus.

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5. Organize your finances

• Save part of your income to cover expenses for the next semester. 
• If your job offers benefits such as discounts on food or transportation, take advantage of them.

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2024 Regulations for Working in Canada as an International Student

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International students may work in Canada, but must meet certain conditions:

• During the academic semester: maximum 24 hours per week off campus. 
• During scheduled vacations: full time with no limit of hours.
• Language programs: students enrolled in English or French courses are not allowed to work. 
• Designated institutions: only students enrolled in government-approved institutions are eligible for work permits.

Important: Failure to comply with these regulations may affect future applications for permanent residency or work permits. 

If you require it, you can request an immigration appointment with Immiland Canada by by clicking here.

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Recommendations for complying with international student work regulations

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• Check your study permit: make sure that your immigration status allows you to work. 
• Consult official sources: check the Canadian government website for updated rules. 
• Avoid non-permitted jobs: do not accept jobs that require additional permits if you do not have them.
• Plan your time: make sure that work does not affect your academic performance.

If you would like more information regarding your studies in Canada, please contact us and an Immiland educational advisor will be able to assist you.Click here to.

I hope this topic has been helpful in finding a job during the summer. Thank you very much for reading, see you in the next blog!

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With love, 

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Immiland Canada Education