SURREY CAMPUS
Working While Studying in Canada: A Guide for ATC Surrey International Students
Can International Students Work While Studying at ATC Surrey?
International students enrolled at ATC Surrey with a valid study permit may be eligible to work while completing their training. Working while studying allows students to:
- Gain valuable hands-on experience in Canada’s automotive and transportation industries.
- Earn extra income to help with living expenses.
- Build a professional network that can support job placement after graduation.
To be eligible for work, your study permit must include a condition that allows you to work in Canada. This condition is typically included if you are enrolled in a program that meets Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) work eligibility criteria.
For more details, visit IRCC’s Work While Studying Page.
Types of Work Available for ATC Surrey International Students
1. Off-Campus Work
International students at ATC Surrey who meet the study permit requirements can work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
- Full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays or winter vacations.
Common Jobs for Trade College Students in Surrey:
- Automotive Service Assistant – Work at auto repair shops, dealerships, and tire service centers.
- Parts & Warehousing Support – Help automotive parts stores and warehouses manage inventory.
- Customer Service & Retail – Work in auto supply stores, rental agencies, or general retail.
- Food & Hospitality – Restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores offer flexible part-time jobs.
- Delivery & Transportation – Some students may find work in courier services, rideshare, or package delivery.
2. On-Campus Work
- ATC Surrey does not offer on-campus employment opportunities.
- However, students can still explore off-campus roles related to their field for practical experience.
How to Find a Job in Surrey as a Trade College Student
1. Online Job Boards & Listings
- Job Bank Canada (www.jobbank.gc.ca )
- Indeed Canada (www.indeed.ca)
- WorkBC (www.workbc.ca)
2. Industry Connections & Networking
- Many automotive repair shops, dealerships, and parts retailers in Surrey hire part-time workers.
- ATC Surrey students can speak with instructors and advisors about job referrals and employer connections.
3. Resume & Interview Tips for Trade Students
- Keep your resume focused on hands-on skills like mechanical work, repair knowledge, and customer service.
- Highlight any certifications or experience from ATC Surrey’s training programs.
- Prepare for interviews by demonstrating technical knowledge and enthusiasm for learning.
Work Permit Requirements & Restrictions
Am I Allowed to Work?
- Your study permit must state that you are authorized to work in Canada.
- You do not need a separate work permit for off-campus jobs if your study permit includes this condition.
Work Limitations for Trade College Students
- Students must be actively enrolled in their program while working part-time.
- You cannot work more than 20 hours per week during study periods.
- If your program ends, you must stop working unless you apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) (not typically available for private career colleges).
Post-graduation Work Opportunities
- ATC Surrey students who complete their programs can apply for employer-sponsored work permits if they secure a job offer.
- Some students may transition into full-time employment in the automotive industry after gaining experience during their studies.
- While Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) are not typically available for private career college graduates, students may explore options such as:
- Employer-Specific Work Permits (if hired by a company willing to sponsor).
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) (if eligible for trades-related immigration pathways).
Do you need more information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, if your study permit states that you can work, you do not need an additional permit for off-campus jobs.
No, students are limited to 20 hours per week during classes but may work full-time during scheduled breaks.
While private career college graduates do not qualify for PGWP, students may apply for employer-sponsored work permits or explore immigration pathways like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Exceeding the allowed work hours violates immigration rules and could lead to study permit revocation or removal from Canada.
Look for part-time roles in auto repair, parts sales, and warehousing. Use job boards, networking, and instructor referrals to find opportunities
For the latest work regulations, visit IRCC’s Work While Studying Page.
