# International Student Co-op Work Permit Canonical page: https://carecard.ca/knowledge/checks-declarations-forms/international-student-co-op-work-permit Language: en-CA **Applicability:** CareCard may show this requirement to an international student, but current federal rules determine whether a separate permit is actually required. **CareCard catalogue default:** 365 days. **Evidence reviewed:** August 31, 2026 Since April 1, 2026, eligible postsecondary international students generally do not need a separate co-op work permit for student work placements. Do not apply or pay solely because an older requirement appears in CareCard; confirm your eligibility with IRCC and your institution. ## What your assigned requirement may ask for [#what-your-assigned-requirement-may-ask-for] When a co-op work permit is still required or your institution asks for an existing permit, the assigned requirement may request: * A complete, readable copy of the permit * Your name, document number, and permit validity dates * The conditions printed on the permit * Your study permit or other status evidence only when specifically requested Do not upload a permit application receipt as if it were an issued permit unless the assigned requirement expressly accepts it. ## Current guidance [#current-guidance] As of April 1, 2026, eligible postsecondary international students do not need a separate co-op work permit for student placements such as co-ops or internships. Existing co-op work permits remain valid until they expire. Secondary-school students still require a co-op work permit for student work placements. Eligibility conditions still apply. Use the current IRCC student-placement instructions and ask your designated learning institution to correct or clarify an assignment that conflicts with them. ## CareCard validity [#carecard-validity] CareCard's current catalogue default is 365 days when this item is assigned. That period does not determine immigration status or a permit's legal validity. The current federal rules and the dates printed on an applicable permit control. ## Sources [#sources] * [IRCC: work in a student work placement](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/intern.html) * [IRCC: working in Canada as an international student](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work.html)