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Studying and Working in Canada: Requirements, Visas and Costs
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Studying and Working in Canada: Requirements, Visas and Costs

Tatiana Forero Rubiano
Tatiana Forero Rubiano

Yearly, students from around the world study abroad. Some go to Australia. Others go to New Zealand. Certainly, many prefer studying and working in Canada.

If you don’t know where to start, relax! At GrowPro, we will share the best reasons to travel to Canada. We will also tell you about the great opportunities and benefits if you take this big step.

Thinking about studying and working in Canada? Let's dive into your options!

5 reasons for studying and working in Canada

Surely, there’s one thing we love about living in Canada. Undeniably, it’s a country of opportunities. Also, unparalleled quality of life. Did you know that in 2021, U.S. News ranked it as the best country in the world?

To discover the secrets and charms of the second-largest country in the world, keep reading. Here are five reasons for studying and working in Canada shortly.

1. Canada protects the world’s cultural diversity

It might sound exaggerated, but it’s true. Canada has defined policies to protect the cultural diversity of its native and migrant populations. Moreover, Canadians take diversity of thought, worship, and freedom of expression very seriously!

In fact, in 2020, the Spartacus International Gay Guide named it the best destination for LGBTIQ people. It has very low levels of discrimination and harassment.

2. Canada is among the best countries for women

According to U.S. News, Canada ranks among the top 5 countries for women’s development. Why? Immigrating to Canada means accessing a political system that values gender equality. And undeniably, respects human rights.

Similarly, Canada has policies that regulate wage equality. They also promote social security and ensure progress for every citizen.

3. Canada has one of the best education systems in the world

All students aim for academic excellence. Obviously, this requires highly prepared teachers. In Canada, this is not an issue!

The Canadian education system is among the world’s best. For instance, in the 2019 PISA tests, Canada achieved one of the highest scores among all countries in the Americas.

For instance, in higher education, Canada stands out with three universities ranked in the top 100 worldwide. This, according to the QS World University Rankings 2024. These universities are:

  • University of Toronto (21).
  • McGill University (30).
  • University of British Columbia (34).

So, if you want to get a first-class education and make your way into the working world, studying in Canada is an excellent decision.

4. It is possible to study and work in Canada

In addition to receiving a quality education, foreign students in Canada have several opportunities to work. Those on study visas can work up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during vacations.

5. Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world

Absolutely! According to Rough Guides’ yearly list, Canada was ranked 5th in 2021. Travelers who loved this destination mentioned there’s so much to see.

For example, Canada has stunning Alpine landscapes perfect for adventurers. Cities like Toronto and Montreal also offer rich cultural experiences.

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Canadian cities you should know

Cool! You have reached one of the most important sections of our article about studying and working in Canada. What is the best city to live in this amazing country? It all depends on your tastes and interests.

For this purpose, we’re giving you a mini guide. It will help you discover which of Canada’s cities could be your next destination. Here we go!

Toronto: one of the best cities in the world

Resonance’s World’s Best Cities 2021 ranks Canada’s largest city as number 13. Given that, here are some reasons why living in Toronto is great:

  • Toronto is one of the fastest-growing cities in North America. It’s also Canada’s financial hub, making it ideal for business opportunities.
  • Toronto is incredibly diverse, with a large migrant population.

Montreal: Canada’s cultural and technological city

Canada boasts not only numerous national parks but also vibrant modern cities rich in culture and entertainment. Montreal, the country’s second most populous city, has especially plenty to offer.

For instance, if you’re keen on studying French, Montreal is the perfect choice— it’s Canada’s multilingual city! Moreover, Montreal hosts some of the country’s finest bars and restaurants.

Another appealing aspect of living in Montreal is its status as one of the world’s smart cities.

Vancouver: Canada’s green city

If you decide to make Vancouver your next destination for studying and working in Canada, great! This Canadian city is betting on the use of technology to improve people’s quality of life.

To study and work in Vancouver is to have access to quality air since some of the most important natural parks in Canada are located in the surrounding areas.

In Vancouver, you will find a lot of museums. You will learn there about the history of Canada and its aboriginal communities.

Also, Whistler, Canada’s white city, is just a few hours away – the ideal setting for winter sports!

Courses for studying and working in Canada

You are probably wondering which are the courses that permit studying and working in Canada. Come with us and find out what they are all about!

Language courses in Canada

In Canada, you can take English or French courses. There, you will develop your speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Besides, others prepare you for language certification exams. We will explain each of them.

Important

If you are taking any of the above-mentioned courses, you will not be eligible for a student job in Canada.

  • General courses: the courses aim to prepare students interactively and entertainingly. Speaking, writing, listening, and comprehension are involved. Classes range from 15 to 30 hours per week!
  • Intensive courses: these courses target students with an intermediate level of English or French. They aim to enhance their skills. The minimum duration is two weeks to three months.
  • Preparation for official exams: official exam preparation is designed for students with an intermediate-advanced level of English or French. They aim to take internationally recognized exams.

Co-Op courses

Technical or vocational courses are specialized study programs offered by Canadian colleges. They offer theoretical and practical study experiences.

The vocational courses have a duration of one year. However, they are divided into two periods. The first six months consist of morning classes. In your free time, you will have the opportunity to work 20 hours a week.

The remaining six months consist of internships, often paid. They relate to the studies you are pursuing.

Do you want to know more about these courses? Take a look at our experiences in Canada. Choose the program you like the most. Then, receive free and personalized advice. 

Visas for studying and working in Canada

To enter legally, a key requirement is to apply for a visa. Which of the visa types permit studying and working in Canada? Find out below!

Student Visa

The student visa allows individuals to pursue study programs longer than six months. And also to obtain a permit to work. Legally, it is 20 hours per week during the school term. And 40 hours per week during vacations.

Some of the requirements to apply for are:

  • Have a valid passport.
  • Submit a letter of acceptance issued by a government-accredited school.
  • Have sufficient funds to study in Canada: 7,000 to 10,000 CAD* for each year of study.
  • Pay the visa fee: 150 CAD*.

*This figure is for reference only and is subject to change.

Working Holiday Visa Canada

The Working Holiday visa is another Canadian visa that permits studying and working in Canada. But it is one of the most competitive! With this document, you will be able to stay in the country, legally, for one year.

In addition, it allows you to work part-time while you are in school. Or full-time when you are on vacation.

Some of the requirements to apply for are:

  • Be a citizen of an eligible country.
  • Be between 18 and 35 years old.
  • Have 2,500 CAD* to cover initial travel expenses.
  • Purchase health insurance.
  • Submit the biometric exams.

*This figure is for reference only and is subject to change.

Post-Graduation Work Permit

Have you finished your studies and wish to stay longer in Canada? Then, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

To apply for this permit, you must have studied in Canada for at least eight months. This determines the approval of the document and its validity, which can be up to 3 years.

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Requirements for studying and working in Canada

First, choose the course you want to take. As you may have noticed, Canada offers a wide variety of study programs. But before you start organizing your trip, you should do your research. You should find out which one suits your needs and preferences.

Then, choose a visa that permits studying and working in Canada. If you plan to work while studying, you’ll need to apply for a student visa or a Working Holiday visa. Otherwise, you will not be able to get a legal job in the country.

First of all, make sure you have the necessary funds to cover your trip. Before organizing your trip, it is good to know your budget. This way, you will know in which city in Canada you should study.

Also, choose the duration of the course you are going to take.

And finally, the budget you need to cover the first weeks of your stay.

How much does it cost to study in Canada?

The duration of language courses in Canada varies from 1 to 52 weeks. They follow a Monday-to-Friday schedule. Each week of classes can cost from around 250 to 300 CAD*.

The school you enroll in and the length of the study program will determine the total cost of the course. In addition to the cost of tuition, there are other expenses such as the cost of living: housing, food, utilities, and transportation.

All this adds up to, more or less, 2,400 CAD* per month. However, the city where you decide to live will increase or decrease this figure.

*This figure is for reference only and is subject to change.

How easy is it to find a job in Canada?

Getting a job in Canada is like in any other country. In other words, it will depend on your preparation and professional experience. Of course, also on your fluency in English or French.

The latter is crucial. If you are not proficient in English or French, your chances of getting a job you like are lower.

Tips for finding a job in Canada

There are several things you can do. For example, check websites specialized in job offers in the city you are in: canadajobs.com, jobsincanada.com, or kijiji.ca.

Also, temporary employment agencies often hire students. So check their offers and find a job you like.

In addition, job fairs are held all over Canada. Be sure to attend when one is organized. This is a good opportunity to learn about the job market in Canada. You will also get in touch with employers and entrepreneurs.

Navigate social networks like LinkedIn, Instagram, X, or Facebook. You can find groups and profiles where they post some job offers. And, during your stay, you will make hundreds of new friends. So don’t hesitate to ask them for help to find a job.

Check this out!

If the above tips don't help, walk around town and hand out your resume. Otherwise, check the window displays and bulletin boards of the bars and stores you visit. It may be your lucky day! They may be looking for an employee, and you may at least get a trial period.

Study and work in Canada with GrowPro

Are you ready to start your study and work adventure in Canada? The first step is to define which course you want to take. Select the experience you are interested in and fill out the form.

Shortly, a Student Advisor will contact you to give you personalized information. We will explain how we can help you with the planning of your trip. And we will assist you in the management of your visa.

Canada awaits you, future grower, take the first step now!

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About the author

Tatiana Forero Rubiano
Tatiana Forero Rubiano

Tatiana viajó como mochilera por Canadá, Ecuador, Perú, Bolivia, Chile y Brasil. Allí, mientras hacía una pasantía en Marketing Digital, descubrió su pasión para escribir sobre viajes. Desde 2018 se ha especializado en Content Marketing y, actualmente, es editora del blog de GrowPro.

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