Hey everyone,
I’m an international undergrad in CS and I’m a bit confused about the new work regulations that kicked in on April 1st, 2026. I’m hoping someone here (or maybe an ISS regular) can clarify if my current plan is legal.
My Situation:
Co-op: I’m currently in a mandatory co-op placement (40 hours/week).
Research: I’ve been offered a research gig with a professor here at UCalgary. It’s about 5–6 hours a week and is stipend-based (on-campus).
My Confusion:
I know that as of April 1, we don't need a separate co-op work permit anymore the study permit covers it. But since a co-op term technically makes me a "full-time student" (and it’s currently the Spring/Summer term, which is usually a scheduled break), I’m not sure if the research hours "clash" with the co-op hours.
My logic so far:
Co-op: IRCC says there's no weekly hour limit for mandatory placements.
Research: Since it's on-campus at U of C, the "Work on campus" rules say there is no hour limit for that either.
Has anyone done this? Does working 40h at a co-op "use up" my eligibility to work on-campus, or are they totally separate pools? I want to make sure I’m not accidentally violating my permit before I accept the stipend.
Thanks in advance!