Canada Allows International Students to Work 24 Hours a Week
In a significant development for international students, Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, recently announced new regulations allowing eligible international students to work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms. This change, effective from November 8, 2024, marks an increase from the previous 20-hour weekly limit and underscores Canada’s commitment to supporting its diverse student community and updating.
International Students can work up to 24 Hours per Week
This updated rule forms part of Canada’s broader strategy to enhance the International Student Program. By expanding work-hour limits, international students gain additional financial flexibility and valuable Canadian work experience without detracting from their primary focus—academic success. These new regulations reinforce the importance of maintaining balanced study permit work conditions.
Are you curious about your eligibility to get in Canada? →
Key highlights of the regulation include:
- Increased Work Hours: Eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms, in line with the updated Canada work hours for international students.
- Mandatory Study Permit Requirements: Students must have a valid study permit that specifies eligibility for off-campus work in Canada.
- Institutional Transitions: Students are required to obtain a new study permit when transferring to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Eligibility Criteria for Off-Campus Work for International Students
Not all international students qualify for off-campus employment. To be eligible, students must meet specific criteria ensuring they adhere to Canada’s regulations:
- Enrollment at a DLI: Students must be enrolled full-time in post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training programs. In Quebec, vocational training at the secondary level also qualifies.
- Program Length: The program must be at least six months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Valid Study Permit: The permit should state conditions permitting off-campus work, aligning with study permit work conditions.
- Social Insurance Number (SIN): Students must obtain a SIN to work in Canada legally.
Steps to Start Working 24 Hours as an International Student
To begin working under the new regulations, students should:
- Review Study Permit Conditions: Ensure that the permit states conditions like “May work off campus” or similar wording.
- Apply for a SIN: This number is essential for employment in Canada and requires a valid study permit that includes eligibility for off-campus work.
- Adhere to Hourly Limits: Students must track their work hours meticulously:
- Academic Terms: A maximum of 24 hours per week, adhering to the new 24 hour work permit Canada regulation.
- Scheduled Breaks: Unlimited working hours, provided the student maintains full-time enrollment before and after the break.
Exceeding the 24-hour limit or working without meeting eligibility requirements can lead to serious repercussions:
- Loss of student status.
- Ineligibility for future immigration programs, including study or work permits.
- Potential removal from Canada.
Are you curious about your eligibility to get in Canada? →
Self-Employment and Remote Work
Self-employed students must also respect the 24-hour limit. This includes any work involving wages, commissions, or rendered services. Additionally, remote work for Canadian employers counts toward the limit, while work for employers outside Canada does not.
Transitioning Between Institutions
To transfer between DLIs, students must apply for a new study permit. This ensures the integrity of the ISP and helps institutions maintain accurate reporting on student enrollment status, an essential part of work regulations for international students in Canada.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
Graduates can work full-time under certain conditions:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Students awaiting their PGWP decision can work full-time if they are eligible for off-campus work during their studies.
- Starting a New Program: Students transitioning to a new study program may work full-time during this period, provided specific conditions are met.
Canada’s decision to increase off-campus work hours for international students reflects its dedication to creating an inclusive, supportive environment. By following these updated regulations, students can better balance work and studies, gain essential professional experience, and contribute meaningfully to the Canadian economy while pursuing their educational aspirations.
FAQ’s
