Exchange in Canada: is it possible to work?
An exchange in Canada goes far beyond the educational experience - it's also an opportunity to work, earn in Canadian dollars and enrich your curriculum. With rules that allow international students to work legally during their study period, Canada stands out as a preferred destination for Brazilians who wish to combine learning and international professional experience.
Work Permits for International Students
Canada offers privileged conditions for international students who wish to work during their study period. With the program Public College in Canada, you have the opportunity to not only improve your knowledge, but also to gain valuable professional experience while studying. The Canadian government allows international students to work up to 24 hours a week during term time and full time during academic vacations.
This flexibility is an important differential for Brazilians who seek to finance part of their studies and living costs through work. In addition, the professional experience gained in a developed country such as Canada adds significant value to your curriculum, opening doors to future opportunities both in Brazil and internationally. To work legally, you'll need to obtain a Social Security Number (SIN) upon arrival in the country, a simple process that can be done at any Service Canada office.
The minimum wage in Canadian provinces
The minimum wage in Canada varies by province or territory, reflecting the legislative autonomy of each region and its different economic realities. Understanding these variations is essential for making informed choices about your exchange destination.
In 2025, the minimum wage values in the main Canadian provinces are:
- British Columbia: C$17.85 per hour (approximately R$74.26)
- Alberta: C$15.00 per hour (approximately R$62.40)
- Ontario: C$17.20 per hour (approximately R$71.55)
- Quebec: C$15.75 per hour (approximately R$65.52)
- Manitoba: C$15.80 per hour (approximately R$65.73)
- Nova Scotia: C$15.70 per hour (approximately R$65.31)
- New Brunswick: C$15.65 per hour (approximately R$65.10)
How much can you earn working during the exchange
By working the maximum allowed 24 hours a week during the term, an international student can generate a significant monthly income. For example, in Ontario, with a minimum wage of C$17.20 per hour, you could earn approximately C$1,651 a month (about R$6,646 at the current rate), enough to cover essential expenses such as food, transportation, and part of the housing.
During academic vacations, the possibility of working full time makes it possible to increase this income considerably. During this period, working 40 hours a week, the same student in Ontario could earn around C$2,752 per month (approximately R $11,325), making it possible to save or cover extra expenses such as travel and entertainment. This financial flexibility is one of the major attractions for Brazilians who choose Canada as an exchange destination.
How to find employment in major Canadian cities
Finding work in Canada may seem challenging at first, but with the right strategies, it is possible to get good opportunities in a short time. The Canadian labor market is dynamic and offers diverse possibilities for international students, especially in large urban centers.
Here are the top tips for getting a job quickly:
- Prepare your resume in Canadian format: Value objectivity and measurable results, limiting yourself to 1-2 pages.
- Develop your skills in English or French: Fluency in the local language is crucial for obtaining better opportunities, especially in customer service positions.
- Utilize Canadian employment platforms: Indeed, LinkedIn, and JobBank are specific to the Canadian market and offer several vacancies for students.
- Invest in networking: Attend events, community groups, and job fairs organized by your educational institution.
- Consider campus vacancies: Many universities and colleges offer work opportunities within the institution itself, with flexible hours compatible with studies.
- Look for areas with high demand: Sectors such as hospitality, retail, restaurants, and customer service frequently hire international students.
Cost of living in major Canadian cities
The cost of living in Canada varies significantly depending on the city chosen for your exchange. After a detailed analysis of the relationship between minimum wage and cost of living in the main Canadian cities, we highlight five locations that offer the best financial conditions for Brazilians in 2025.
Montreal, in Quebec, leads as the most advantageous city. With a minimum wage of C$16.10 as of May 2025 and a significantly lower cost of living than other major Canadian metropolises, it offers excellent value for money. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around C$900, well below cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
Comparison: working in Canada vs. Brazil on minimum wage
Working in Canada on minimum wage offers considerably better financial conditions than in Brazil. In 2025, the Brazilian minimum wage is around R$1,518 a month for a 44-hour working week. In contrast, a student in Canada working just 24 hours a week can earn the equivalent of R$6,646 per month (in Ontario), four times the amount of the Brazilian minimum wage for significantly less hours worked.
Possibilities after completing the studies
After completing your study program in Canada, you may be eligible for the PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit), which allows you to work full time in the country for a period equivalent to the duration of the program studied, up to a maximum of three years. This is an excellent opportunity to gain international professional experience and build a career in Canada.
Be Easy
A Be Easy offers full support to make your dream of studying and working in Canada a reality. Our specialized team assists at every stage, from choosing the ideal program according to your profile and objectives to the preparation of visa documentation. We offer personalized guidance on job opportunities and adaptation strategies. Get in touch today and discover how we can facilitate your journey to Canada!
