9 Tips for International Students Applying for a CO-OP Work Permit in London, ON

What Is a CO-OP Work Permit?

A CO-OP Work Permit in London, ON is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students to complete work placements or internships as part of their academic programs. These placements must be mandatory, meaning they are required to graduate and are listed in the curriculum.

London, Ontario is home to several well-regarded institutions, such as Western University and Fanshawe College, which offer programs that integrate practical experience through co-operative education. To participate in these work terms legally, international students must apply for a CO-OP Work Permit in addition to their study permit.

Why Do You Need a CO-OP Work Permit?

Many academic programs in Canada require students to gain hands-on experience through workplace training. Without a CO-OP Work Permit, international students are not legally allowed to engage in such work placements. This permit ensures that students are in compliance with Canadian immigration laws and helps them gain valuable experience in their field of study.

Applying for this permit involves specific steps, timelines, and documentation. Mistakes or delays in this process can result in missed opportunities. The following tips are designed to help international students complete their applications smoothly and on time.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility with Your Academic Institution

Before beginning the application, confirm with your school that your program includes a mandatory co-op or internship component. You’ll typically need a letter from your academic institution outlining:

• That the work placement is a required part of your program
• The duration of the work term
• The expected start and end dates

Without this official letter, your application for a CO-OP Work Permit in London, ON cannot proceed.

2. Apply Early—Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Processing times for CO-OP Work Permits can vary, depending on the time of year and the volume of applications. It's advisable to apply as early as possible—ideally 4–6 months before your placement is set to begin.

This lead time ensures you receive your permit in time and avoids unnecessary stress or having to postpone your work term.

3. Ensure Your Study Permit Is Valid

Your CO-OP Work Permit application is tied to your study permit. If your study permit is close to expiring, renew it before or alongside your CO-OP Work Permit application. Both documents need to remain valid for the duration of your internship or placement.

Keep digital and paper copies of both permits and update your institution with any changes to your status.

4. Gather All Required Documents Before Submitting

Incomplete applications are one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections. Make sure your application includes:

• A valid passport copy
• A current study permit
• The co-op letter from your academic institution
• A completed IMM 5710 form (if applying from within Canada)

Organize these documents before you log in to the IRCC portal to ensure you can complete the application in one go.

5. Pay Close Attention to Application Details

Whether you’re applying online or via paper (online is faster), make sure that all information is consistent and matches your study permit and passport. Discrepancies, such as incorrect spellings or mismatched dates, can result in application rejection or processing delays.

Triple-check names, addresses, program dates, and document uploads before hitting “submit.”

6. Check Processing Times and Plan Around Them

IRCC updates processing times weekly. Keep track of how long it currently takes to receive a CO-OP Work Permit and plan your schedule accordingly.

If your program includes multiple work terms, you can ask for a permit that covers all terms at once, provided you include proper documentation. This avoids repeat applications and gives you greater scheduling flexibility.

7. Be Aware of Work Limitations

Unlike off-campus work rights under a study permit, CO-OP Work Permits are specific to your academic program and only apply to work that is part of your course requirement.

You cannot use a CO-OP Work Permit to take a part-time job unrelated to your field or program. Understanding these restrictions helps you stay in compliance with IRCC regulations.

8. Use Your School’s International Student Services

Most schools in London, ON offer support through their international student offices. These teams can:

• Review your documents before submission
• Help draft or request the required co-op letter
• Guide you through common pitfalls in the application process

Take advantage of these resources. They are free, accessible, and often have experience dealing with common immigration issues faced by students.

9. Consult with a Regulated Immigration Consultant for Complex Cases

If you’ve had issues with past permits, gaps in your study record, or complications related to your program status, it’s advisable to consult with a regulated immigration professional.

Some students face unique challenges, such as changing programs, missing documents from home countries, or past refusals. A consultant can help structure your application to avoid future rejections.

Common Challenges Faced by Students

While the process is straightforward for most, international students sometimes encounter hurdles such as:

• Forgetting to apply in advance and missing the start date of the work term
• Submitting incomplete documentation
• Using the wrong application form or method
• Failing to track the progress of the permit and not receiving IRCC updates

Avoid these by staying organized, setting reminders, and keeping copies of all submitted materials.

How to Track Your Application

Once you submit your application online through IRCC’s portal, you’ll receive an acknowledgment of receipt and a tracking number. Use this number to monitor the status of your application.

Be sure to check your IRCC account and email regularly for updates or document requests. Any additional requests from IRCC must be completed by a given deadline, or your application may be closed.

Moving Forward

Applying for a CO-OP Work Permit in London, ON is a crucial step for international students who wish to fulfill their academic program requirements through internships or placements. Taking time to understand the process, prepare early, and follow the correct steps can make a significant difference in how smoothly the application proceeds.

For students dealing with more complex situations, support from qualified professionals can be invaluable. Neev Immigration offers guidance tailored to students studying in London, ON and can assist with permit applications, renewals, and troubleshooting issues during the application journey.