Canada hosts over 1 million international students annually, making it one of the top destinations for students worldwide. As an international student, you need to navigate the Canadian financial system from the moment you arrive — from opening a bank account to understanding your tax obligations and planning your path to permanent residence through the PGWP.
Opening a Bank Account as an International Student
You can open a Canadian bank account with a valid study permit and passport. Most banks offer special student accounts with no monthly fees. Documents you need:
- Valid passport
- Study permit issued by IRCC
- Canadian address (student residence or temporary housing address is fine)
- SIN (if you have one — see below)
Best bank accounts for international students: TD Student Chequing, RBC No Limit Banking for Students, Scotiabank Basic Plus Account, KOHO (no fees at all, no SIN required).
Do International Students Need a SIN?
You can apply for a SIN if your study permit includes authorization to work in Canada. Most study permits for full-time students at designated learning institutions (DLIs) include this authorization. Check your permit — it should state you are authorized to work on or off campus.
Apply for your SIN at Service Canada with your study permit and passport. If you are not authorized to work, you can still open a bank account without a SIN at most institutions. See our SIN guide for full details.
Working in Canada as a Student
Most full-time international students at designated learning institutions can work:
- On campus: Unlimited hours while school is in session
- Off campus: Up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions (increased from 20 hours in 2024)
- Full-time during scheduled breaks: Winter break, summer break, and reading week
Your employer will require your SIN for payroll. Employment income from Canadian sources is taxable — you will need to file a T1 tax return for any year you earn income in Canada.
Taxes as an International Student in Canada
As an international student, your tax status in Canada depends on how long you have been here and your ties to Canada. If you are in Canada for more than 183 days in a calendar year or have significant ties to Canada (apartment lease, bank account, driver's licence), you may be considered a Canadian tax resident for that year.
Tax residents must report worldwide income. Non-residents only report Canadian-sourced income. Most international students who work in Canada will need to file a T1 return by April 30 of the following year. Benefits of filing even if you have low income:
- GST/HST Credit — quarterly payments of up to $500/year for eligible individuals
- Tuition tax credits that carry forward to future years
- Creates your RRSP contribution room for future use
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The PGWP is one of the most valuable aspects of studying in Canada. After graduating from an eligible Canadian institution, you can apply for a PGWP that allows you to work anywhere in Canada for any employer.
PGWP Key Facts 2025
- Duration: 8 months to 3 years, based on the length of your program
- Programs under 8 months: Not eligible for PGWP
- Programs 8 months to 2 years: PGWP equal to program length
- Programs 2 years or longer: 3-year PGWP
- Must apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks
- PGWP is open work permit — work for any employer in any province
- PGWP Canadian work experience counts toward Express Entry CEC and many PNP streams
Pathway from Study Permit to Permanent Residence
Many international students use the following pathway to permanent residence:
- Study in Canada (2–4 year program at a DLI)
- Apply for and receive PGWP after graduation
- Work full-time for 1 year to meet Canadian Experience Class (CEC) requirements
- Apply for permanent residence through Express Entry (CEC stream)
- Typical timeline from study start to PR: 3–6 years total
Student Banking Tips to Maximize Your Stay
- Start building credit immediately: Apply for a secured credit card in your first month. Use KOHO Credit Building ($7/month). After 12–24 months, you will have a strong credit history for post-graduation life.
- Open a TFSA if eligible: Students who are Canadian tax residents and aged 18+ can open a TFSA. Contribution room accumulates even while studying.
- Keep your tuition receipts (T2202): Every January, your school issues a T2202 form showing tuition paid. These credits reduce your taxes when you start working full-time.
- Track your worldwide income: If you receive income from your home country (parental support, scholarships), understand whether this is taxable in Canada.
Sending Money from Home to Pay Tuition
International wire transfers to pay Canadian tuition can be expensive through traditional banks. Consider using Wise or Flywire for tuition payments — they often offer better exchange rates and lower fees than bank wire transfers. Read our guide to sending money internationally.