What is a Co-op Work Permit?

If you are an international student in Canada, your study program may require you to complete a co-op placement or internship as part of your academic training.

The Co-op Work Permit allows you to work in Canada for this mandatory placement without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It is an LMIA-exempt work permit under exemption codes C32 (post-secondary) and C33 (secondary/vocational).

At Scope Immigration Services, we help students apply for co-op work permits with confidence — ensuring applications are complete and aligned with IRCC requirements.

Who Can Apply for a Co-op Work Permit?

You may qualify if:

1. You hold a valid study permit.
2. Your program requires a co-op, internship, or work placement to graduate.
3. Your school issues a letter confirming the work placement is an essential part of your program.

Types of Students Eligible:

1. Post-secondary students (C32): University, college, or vocational training students.
2. Secondary-level students (C33): High school students in vocational or technical programs.

Why is a Co-op Work Permit Important?

1. It is mandatory if your program includes a work component.
2. It allows you to gain practical Canadian work experience.
3. Work experience may help strengthen your future permanent residence (PR) application.
4. Employers don’t need an LMIA → making it easier to hire you.

Application Process – How It Works

1. Get a letter from your school confirming the co-op or internship is required.
2. Prepare your documents:
   • Valid study permit
   • Letter from your institution
   • Passport and other identification
3. Apply online through your IRCC account.
4. Wait for approval and receive your Co-op Work Permit.

Most students apply for their study permit and co-op work permit together. But you can also apply later if your school confirms the placement after your studies begin.

Common Mistakes Students Make

Many students face delays or refusals due to small errors:

1. Forgetting to apply for a co-op work permit before the internship start date.
2. Using a regular work permit instead of a co-op permit.
3. Missing the required letter from their institution.
4. Applying under the wrong category (C31 instead of C32).

Example: A college student in Toronto missed adding their co-op letter when applying. Their application was refused, causing them to miss their placement and extend their graduation timeline.

Tips for a Strong Application

1. Apply early – don’t wait until your placement is about to start.
2. Double-check that your school letter clearly says the placement is mandatory.
3. Keep copies of all documents for your records.
4. If unsure, consult an RCIC to avoid unnecessary delays.

Benefits of a Co-op Work Permit

1. Gain hands-on Canadian work experience.
2. Build connections with employers for future jobs.
3. Strengthen your permanent residency application later.
4. Combine study + work experience for career growth.