International Students

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

As of April 1, 2026, international students enrolled in post-secondary programs that include an internship, practicum, co-op, clinical placement, or other work-integrated learning component, such as students who choose the Co-op stream, are no longer required to obtain a separate co-op/work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may complete your required work placement using your study permit.

To participate in an internship or work placement as an international student, you must:

• Be enrolled as a full-time student in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program;
• Be studying in a program that is at least six months in length and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate;
• Have a letter from Bishop’s University confirming that the internship, practicum, co-op, or work placement is a mandatory component of your program of study;
• Complete a work placement that represents 50% or less of your overall program of study;
• Hold a valid study permit or have maintained status while awaiting a decision on an extension application; and
• Have study permit conditions that authorize you to work on campus.

For more information, please visit the Government of Canada webpage on internships and work placements for international students.

Please see an Immigration Advisor at Bishop’s International for more information or if you are unsure whether you meet the eligibility requirements.

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