Canada, 22nd September 2015 : With the new school year, one area of consistent confusion for international students are study permits, and when a work permit is also required for their particular academic program. “Study permits should be straight forward, but there are tricky areas that trip up many international students coming to Canada...” said Guidy Mamann, a Toronto immigration lawyer.

First, you must be accepted at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, and you also need to have the right documents, including:

1. Original acceptance letter from the DLI;
2. Proof of identity;
3. Proof of funds to support your studies;
4. Letter of explanation about your study plans.

Having a valid study permit includes:

• Ability to work part-time if you are enrolled as a full-time student, in good standing;
• Ability to renew your study permit from within Canada, as required.

A study permit is NOT required when enrolled in a short-term course/program less than 6 months long.

New rules now make it easier for study permit holders to work off campus, without a work permit. To qualify you must:

• Have a valid study permit;
• Be registered as a full-time student in good standing at a DLI;
• Be enrolled and studying in a program (6 months or longer) that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate ;
• ESL/general/preparatory courses DO NOT qualify.

If you qualify to work without a work permit, the study permit allows you to:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during the regular academic sessions;
• Work full-time during scheduled breaks such as winter and summer holidays, and spring break

However, work permits are required for:

• Any program with a co-op or internship;
• Furthermore, in order to be eligible for a work permit:
- You must have a valid study permit
- The work must be an essential part of your program of study and certified by a letter from the academic official of the institution
- Your co-op or internship employment cannot form more than 50% of the total program of study

For more detailed information about how a study permit or work permit applies for your specific situation, contact one of the immigration professionals at Mamann, Sandaluk & Kingwell to discuss your needs, and whether one or both permits will be required for your academic program. Don’t let ignorance of the rules get you into trouble!” recommends Guidy.

About Mamann, Sandaluk & Kingwell LLP:
Mamann, Sandaluk & Kingwell LLP is one of Canada’s leading teams in Canadian and US immigration law. With over 28 years of experience helping individuals and businesses with their immigration needs, their team of expert lawyers in Toronto and Mississauga can speak your language and provide professional and expert immigration advice no matter your issue. For the latest immigration news, follow them on Facebook and Google+ or visit their website (www.migrationlaw.com).