Employment Rights and Conditions

As an international student at ULI, understanding your employment rights and working conditions in BC is essential. Whether you are working part-time while studying or seeking full-time employment after graduation, knowing your rights will help ensure a fair and safe work environment.

Work Eligibility for International Students

You and your employer must make sure you can work off campus without a work permit before you start working. If you start working off campus but don’t meet the requirements, you may have to leave Canada.

You can only start working in Canada when your study program has started. You can’t work before you start your studies.

If you are able to work during your studies, it’ll say so in the conditions on your study permit.

If you are eligible for off-campus work, you don’t need a work permit.

On-Campus Work: Full-time students with valid study permits may work on campus without a separate work permit.
Off-Campus Work: Eligible students can work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Co-op and Internship Work Permits: If your program includes mandatory work experience, you may need a co-op work permit.

For details on work eligibility, refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Social Insurance Number (SIN) Requirement

Before starting any paid work in Canada, you must obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN). The SIN is required for tax purposes and to access government programs and benefits. You can apply for a SIN through Service Canada either online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre.

For more information on how to apply for a SIN, visit the Social Insurance Number page.

Your Rights as a Worker in BC

Employment in BC is regulated by the Employment Standards Act, which sets out rules for wages, hours, and workplace conditions. Here are some key rights you should be aware of:

Minimum Wage: Employers must pay at least the current minimum wage set by the BC government. As of June 1, 2024, the minimum wage in B.C. is $17.40 per hour.
Work Hours and Breaks: You are entitled to meal breaks and limits on daily and weekly work hours. A 30-minute unpaid meal break must be provided when an employee works more than five hours in a row.
Overtime Pay: If you work more than the standard hours, you may be entitled to overtime pay.
Paid Vacation and Statutory Holidays: Employees may qualify for paid vacation time and statutory holiday pay.
Safe Working Conditions: Employers must provide a safe workplace and follow health and safety regulations.
Protection from Unfair Treatment: Workers are protected from unfair dismissal, discrimination, and workplace harassment.

For more details on employment standards in BC, visit the BC Government Employment Standards page.

Your Responsibilities as an Employee

As an employee, you are expected to:

Follow workplace rules and fulfill job duties.
Show up on time and maintain professional conduct.
Provide proper notice if resigning from your job.

What to Do if Your Rights Are Violated

If you experience unfair treatment at work, you can:

Communicate: Discuss concerns with your employer.
Seek Advice: Contact the Employment Standards Branch for guidance.
File a Complaint: If necessary, file a formal complaint with the Employment Standards Branch.

For more information, visit the BC Government Employment Standards page.

Need Help?

If you have questions about your employment rights, reach out to ULI Student Support Services or use the resources linked above. Understanding your rights ensures a fair and positive work experience in BC.