Canada is consistently hailed as one of the best places to live and work in the world. Work-life balance is highly valued, as is being outdoors and spending time in nature. The second largest country by area in the world, there’s plenty of space to explore! Canadians are known to be friendly, open-minded, and tolerant of different cultures and ways of life. Multiculturalism is valued; international travelers and immigrants are welcomed.
Is Canada calling you?
and wide-ranging for those seeking to work and . While there are requirements for internships in Canada that you need to meet in order to be eligible, a bit of research and advance preparation will see you in the Great White North in no time!
What kind of visa do I need for student internships in Canada?
As an international student seeking an internship in Canada, you’ll first need to determine if your country has a . If they do, that would mean it’ll be a lot easier to get a visa to go to Canada for an internship. In fact, Canada offers visas that cater specifically to .
There are student (currently enrolled in a college or university) and non-student visas available. It’s important to note that , while non-student internships are always paid under Canadian law.
For internships in Canada for US students, you’ll and a . You can apply for both at the same time, but you’ll need materials from your college/university to do so. Make sure to start early so you have all required materials at the time of application!
What are the requirements for internships in Canada?
Do you want a student permit, a work permit, or both?
stipulate that you can work on or off campus while enrolled at an educational institution. The secondary or post-secondary institution you’ll be attending in Canada (or remotely) must require a co-op/internship experience. All school requirements must be met.
If you’re applying for a non-student internship visa, you cannot be enrolled in an educational institution, and if you want to work but aren’t a student, you’ll need a work permit. This option is great for recent graduates, young professionals, or those looking for a working holiday experience!
So, without looking too hard you’ll find many programs and opportunities available for students looking for internships while in school!
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What are the best fields for internships in Canada?
When looking into how to find an internship in Canada, you should first consider what type of internship you’d like. Regardless of whether you are going to be a student or not, consider what qualifications you currently have, your career goals, and what experience you’ll need when applying for your dream job.
Employers are looking for both hard and soft skills. Hard skills could include accounting, statistics, computer coding, languages, or project management. Adaptability, creativity, problem-solving, and how you work independently or on a team are all examples of soft skills.
As you look for an internship, prioritize employers that will offer you both types of skill sets, while providing a great addition to your resume. Some of the best fields that will offer you both experience and resume stardom include media and marketing, technology, business, and even performing arts.
How to get an internship in Canada
Do your research and find a program that advances your career goals!
Wherever your search takes you, these steps on how to get an internship in Canada can guide your process. And once your application is submitted, don’t forget to take a moment to learn more about Canadian life and culture! You’ll be sure to impress your co-workers and fellow international students by showing up well prepared.
Step 1: Research
As a prospective Canadian intern, you should note where you’ll be geographically if attending school, or where you want to be if you won’t be limited to a certain location.
Canada is large and varied. If your focus is language-learning, or are culturally diverse and ideal French-speaking destinations. If your concentration is theater or performance, consider the arts hub of .
Determine what type of internship you will be applying for and what you’ll need from both your school and employer (if you’ve already secured an internship) to apply for a visa (study and work permits). Research what types of internships you qualify for and are interested in.
Start early; student internships in Canada may take some time to secure (often a few months minimum). If you’ll need to intern remotely, make sure to filter by those opportunities. Make a list of what you’ll need for your application, as well as employer deadlines.
Step 2: Select programs
Canada is a perfect environment to learn global leadership skills.
Once you know where and when you want to intern in Canada, and what it is you want to focus on for your internship, it’s time to start picking out programs. (Psst…we got your search started for you in the section below.)
With so many internship programs available in Canada, how are you supposed to choose the right one for you? Our advice is to focus on your goals, as well as program reviews. Your goals will guide your search, and program reviews will give you an excellent snapshot of what you can expect from your internship.
. It’s a free tool that allows you to save and compare internship programs side-by-side, for more efficient research!
Step 3: Submit your application
Gather your application materials and submit! Usually, a resume, cover letter, and letters of recommendation are required. You should also ensure your LinkedIn is up to date. After submission, start preparing for interviews, making sure to research your potential employers to learn more about what they do.
Step 4: Get your visa
Hooray! Did you snag the internship of your dreams? If you’re securing an internship prior to applying for your visa, let your new employer know that. They may be able to help you through the process, and in some cases, you may need proof of employment from them in order to qualify for your work permit. If you’re able to apply for a visa prior to securing your internship, make sure to do so well in advance of your internship start date.
Step 5: Secure your flight and accommodation
Once you have your internship offer and your visa is processing, it’s time to secure your flight and (although, sometimes all of these things are happening at once—whew.) Some internships provide everything from travel expenses to room and board! Make sure you take advantage of any offers. Bon voyage!
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3 cool internships in Canada for US students
Canada has practically every internship type imaginable.
Now that you know how to get an internship in Canada, the question is what internships are actually out there. We’ve got you covered! Here are three programs we highly recommend for you to explore as you research internship programs in Canada. Choose from medical internships to wildlife conservation and more!
1.
- Why? Live and work in an exciting city with a hometown feel while gaining valuable professional experience. This program offers a variety of internships according to your interests and preferred field. You’ll have the experience of a lifetime while adding to your CV and joining a valuable network of alumni. Bonus: With this program, you’ll have access to a 12-month series of real-time talks with global business leaders!
- Where? Toronto, Ontario
2.
- Why? Canada is home to many different types of animals. If your interests lie in animal care or wildlife conservation, this is the perfect opportunity for you to gain hands-on experience! You’ll also be located in beautiful Langley, famous for horseback riding, wineries, and picturesque farms. You’re sure to have many adventures with new friends and fellow interns on this internship program.
- Where? Langley, British Columbia
3.
- Why? Through this internship, you’ll learn directly from doctors and nurses at renowned medical facilities, gain practical knowledge to apply in future jobs, and spearhead outreach programs in rural areas throughout Canada. You also have the option to focus on research and academics, or choose departments you’d like to rotate through to focus on different specialties.
- Where? Multiple cities throughout Canada
Boost your resume with a student internship in Canada!
Getting an internship in Canada should be smooth sailing now.
Canada is the perfect place for international students to gain experience and boost their resume with an internship. There are a multitude of internships in Canada for US students, which offer the added benefit of transferable skills and experience.
International students looking to improve their English will find Canada a friendly and open place to learn a new language. If you’re hesitant to take the first step, you’ve actually already taken it! By learning more about opportunities available, you’re well on your way to your next adventure.
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