Bishop’s University Co-operative Education is pleased to welcome all international students to the program! We are certain that your decision to study and work in Canada will present you with an extraordinary learning experience. As an international student, there are several important steps that you should be aware of and they are outlined in detail below. You should contact the Co-op Office if you have additional questions or concerns.

International students should also refer to the detailed information about the conditions that must be respected in order to work in Canada on the Bishop’s International web page Working in Canada.

Co-op Work Permit

All study permit holders whose program of study includes a mandatory internship or work experience, such as students who choose the Co-op stream, must apply for and obtain a free co-op work permit from IRCC prior to starting their placement. Take note that a co-op work permit is required regardless of whether the placement is on campus or off campus, paid or unpaid.  

The co-op work permit will list Bishop’s University as the employer and be linked to your study permit with the same expiration date. In order to apply for a Co-op permit, you must provide proof with your application that the work experience is an integral part of your program. Please contact the Co-op office to obtain the necessary support letter confirming your eligibility and the relevant details of your program.  

Study permit holders who are already in Canada will apply online for their permit using the IRCC secure account. We strongly encourage you to apply for this permit as soon as you are accepted into the Co-op stream, as processing times apply and the permit will be mailed to you. Work as a co-op student or intern – Canada.ca 

Prior to the add/drop deadline in the term in which you will be completing your placement, you must upload your work permit to your myBU file in order to remain registered in the activity.

Questions? Each semester, Bishop’s International offers workshops on how to apply for this permit. Don’t hesitate to contact an Immigration Advisor for guidance or sign up for a Webinar and Workshop.

Social Insurance Number (SIN)

If you are a Canadian citizen, a newcomer to Canada or a temporary resident, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada or to receive benefits and services from government programs.

Step 1: In order to apply for a SIN, you will need to prepare several documents:

  • Your primary document: A primary document is an official document that proves your identity and status in Canada. Service Canada needs to see an original of your primary document. If the name on this document is different from the name you currently use, you will also need to provide a supporting document. 
    • Examples of primary documents include a study permit issued by IRCC (international student status) or a diplomatic identity card and a work authorization issued by Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (diplomatic status).
  • Your secondary document: Your secondary document must contain your legal name and date of birth.
    • Examples of secondary documents include your passport (Canadian or foreign), a Canadian provincial or territorial ID or driver’s license.

Step 2: Service Canada encourages you to apply online for your Social Insurance Number.

Please visit their website for more information. Social Insurance Number – Apply, update or obtain a SIN confirmation – Canada.ca.

If you wish to apply in person, you can do so at a Service Canada Centre. Please check the hours of service ahead of time on their website.

The Service Canada Centre is located at:
50, Place de la Cité
Sherbrooke, Québec
J1H 1R2