Can I get a Security License as an International Student in Alberta?
February 28, 2026 Alberta Security Hub Staff
International students can obtain a security license in Alberta, however, you must meet the eligibility requirements and be legally allowed to work in Canada
Obtaining a security license is a significant step towards building job experience and settling into your new life in Canada. Security roles can offer flexible scheduling that works around class timetables, such as part time or casual shifts.
In Alberta, the government requires a security licence under the Security Services and Investigators Act for people working in roles such as a:
- Security guard
- Patrol dog handler
- Alarm responder
- Loss prevention worker
- Body guard
There are also eligibility requirements that must be met, you must:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Be eligible to work in Canada:
- e.g. A work permit, co-op work permit, or a study permit that clearly states you are allowed to work
- Simply holding a study permit does not automatically mean you are eligible to work, your permit must include work permissions, or you must have other immigration status that permits employment. It is recommended to contact Security Programs if you are on a work or study permit, since special documentation or proof of work eligibility may be required
- Be fluent in English (Level 5 benchmark according to the Centre For Canadian Language Benchmarks)
- Have no criminal record, no outstanding criminal charges and not be the subject of a criminal investigation
If you meet the eligibility requirements, your general next steps would be:
- Complete the ABST (Alberta Basic Security Training) course. This training will help prepare you for your provincial exam and become job ready. When choosing a training provider, always ensure it is ministry accredited, such as Our Ministry Accredited Online Course. The ABST course cannot be taken outside of Canada, however an online course such as ours can be completed in Alberta or any other province within Canada.
- Pass the provincial exam with a minimum score of 80%
- Apply for your license by providing required documents such as a criminal background check and photo ID. Once you have your Alberta security license, you will be able to apply to any security guard position in Alberta.
One thing to remember after completing the provincial exam and applying for your license is that those on a study or work permit would have to mail in their license application and cannot apply through an in-person registry location.
