Applying from OUTSIDE Canada

Use this guide only if you are outside of Canada and you apply for your co-op work permit at the same time you apply for your study permit.

How to apply for your co-op work permit and study permit at the same time:

1. Review our Study Permit Application Guide 
2. Check Your Eligibility
   1. Complete the Check your eligibility questionnaire.
      • When asked “Is work an essential component of your studies?”, select “Yes” (even if the work will be unpaid).
   2. At the end, you’ll receive a personalized Document Checklist that includes the IMM1294 form (Application for a Study Permit Made Outside of Canada) and a section called "Evidence of Work Requirement in Study" (where you will upload your Co-Op letter
3. Complete the IMM 1294 form
   1. Fill out the IMM1294 form. You will not be asked any information about your co-op/internship work on this form.
   2. Once this form is completed save it to your desktop as you will upload it as part of your study permit application through your IRCC Secure Account.

      McGill's Immigration Canada (IRCC) Designated Learning Institution number (DLI#) is O19359011033

4. Upload the Required Documents

   1. All of the documents that appear in your Document Checklist. See our Study Permit Application Guide for more information.

   2. Your Co-Op letter confirming that your program includes a work component that all students must complete in order to get their degree. Upload this letter in the "Evidence of Work Requirement in Study" section of your Document Checklist.

   3. Your immigration medical exam receipt (proof of upfront immigration medical exam) only if your program requires you to work in a job for which a medical exam is necessary. Examples of programs where students must provide an immigration medical exam include, but are not limited to: B. Ed. and BScN.

   4. Your letter of acceptance (if you are a new student) or proof of enrolment (if you are a continuing student).

5. Pay the fees
   1. Pay the fees indicated at the bottom of your Document Checklist.
   2. You won't be asked to pay an additional fee for a co-op work permit as it is fee-exempt (i.e., free).
6. Receive Your Permits
   1. Once your application has been approved, you will receive your Study Permit and Work Permit letter of introduction via your IRCC Secure Account.
   2. Print this letter and present it to the Canadian Border Services Agency officer when you arrive in Canada.
   3. Your actual study permit and co-op work permit will be issued to you at your Port of Entry (airport or land border) by the CBSA officer.
   4. Check your permits for any errors.

Useful Resources:

1. IRCC's check processing time webpage. Your application should be processed according to "Study permit (from outside Canada)" processing times.
2. IRCC's co-op work permit webpage 
3. ISS' Study Permit Application Guide

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