Step-by-Step Guide to Amending Your Study Permit for Work Eligibility in Canada

International students in Canada who find their study permit doesn't mention work eligibility need to amend it before they can start working. This process is called applying for an Amendment to the Record of Landing, Confirmation of Permanent Residence or Temporary Resident Document, using form IMM 1436. Remember, you can only request an amendment if Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made an error on your document.

Eligibility for Permit Amendment

To be eligible, students must:

- Have been eligible to work in Canada when their study permit was issued.

- Have a study permit that doesn't correctly state work conditions or is missing them entirely.

Steps to Amend Your Study Permit

1. Gather Required Documents: You'll need your acceptance letter, enrollment letter, passport, government ID, and original study permit.

2. Fill Out the Latest Application Form: Download, print, complete, and hand-sign the latest IMM 1436 form from IRCC's website. Don't forget to include the document checklist.

3. Mail Application: Use a trackable service to send your application to the Operations Support Centre in Ottawa. For regular mail, use the address Operations Support Centre (OSC), P.O. Box 8784 STN T CSC, Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 5J3. For courier services, use: Operations Support Centre (OSC), 365 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 1L1.

4. Review New Permit: Once approved, you'll get a new study permit by mail. Ensure it states “may accept employment” or “may work,” along with specific work conditions.

Key Notes:

- The application is free, and processing times vary, so check IRCC’s website for updates.

- You can't work until your permit has the correct conditions, and you need this to get a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

- Keep a digital copy of your new permit in a safe place for easy access.