Canada has recently increased the off-campus work hours for international students. Eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms, providing them with more financial flexibility and practical work experience.
Canada has recently updated its regulations, allowing eligible international students to work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms. This adjustment offers greater flexibility while ensuring students remain focused on their education.
A Balanced Approach
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marc Miller explained that the increase from the previous 20-hour limit strikes a balance between providing valuable work opportunities and ensuring students remain focused on their studies. “This change will give students more flexibility to manage their time and gain practical experience,” Miller stated.
Key Changes to the International Student Program
1. Increase in Off-Campus Work Hours for International Students
Canada announced the increase of off-campus work hours to 24 per week. This change, up from 20 hours, balances work opportunities with academic demands, allowing international students more flexibility. It officially took effect following earlier proposals.
2. Full-Time Work Allowed During Academic Breaks
Eligible international students can now work full-time during academic breaks, like summer and winter holidays. These periods provide opportunities for students to boost their earnings without conflicting with class schedules, maximizing financial stability while pursuing their education in Canada.
3. Ensuring a Balance Between Work and Studies
Canada’s updated regulations aim to help students better balance work and study. By raising the weekly limit to 24 hours, Canada offers more work opportunities while ensuring that academic commitments remain the priority, promoting a sustainable study schedule.
4. Reporting Requirements for Educational Institutions
Designated educational institutions must now report twice yearly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These reports will verify students’ enrollment and academic progress, ensuring they meet study permit requirements. This measure supports the integrity of Canada’s International Student Program.
5. Changes to Designated Learning Institution Transfers
New rules mandate approval before switching to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). International students must apply for a new study permit before changing institutions, reinforcing compliance with permit conditions and maintaining academic standards across Canada’s educational institutions.
Specific Work Rules for Students in Quebec
In Quebec, international students are allowed to work off campus without a separate work permit, provided they meet certain conditions. To qualify, students must be enrolled full-time in a post-secondary, vocational, or professional training program, or a vocational training program at the secondary level. The course must last at least six months and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Canada’s Future Immigration Plans
As part of the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aims to gradually reduce its temporary resident population. This effort is aligned with the overall goals of the country’s temporary resident programs, which focus on ensuring a well-balanced and sustainable immigration system.
Conclusion
Canada’s decision to raise the off-campus work limit offers international students more flexibility and opportunities. This change aims to strengthen the International Student Program, helping students balance academic success with valuable work experience that supports their studies.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/canada-raises-off-campus-work-limit-for-students-new-24-hour-rule-explained/
