Canada Expands Off-Campus Work Hours for Students: New 24-Hour Rule Detailed

International students now have more hours to work off-campus in Canada. During academic years, eligible students can now work up to 24 hours a week, giving them more financial flexibility and real-world work experience.

Due to recent changes to its laws, Canada now permits qualified international students to work off campus for up to 24 hours every week throughout the academic year. More freedom is provided by this change, which also keeps students’ attention on their studies.

An Equitable Method

The hike from the previous 20-hour restriction, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marc Miller, strikes a compromise between giving students worthwhile employment opportunities and making sure they stay focused on their academics. Miller said, “Students will have more freedom to manage their time and obtain real-world experience thanks to this change.”

Key Changes to the International Student Program

1. Extension of International Students’ Off-Campus Work Hours

Canada declared that off-campus employment hours would now be 24 hours a week. This increase from 20 hours gives international students more flexibility by striking a balance between their job and academic obligations. It formally went into action after previous proposals.

2. Full-time employment is permitted during academic breaks

International students who meet the requirements can now work full-time during the summer and winter breaks from school. These times give students the chance to increase their income without interfering with their academic plans, maximizing their financial security while studying in Canada.

3. Maintaining Equilibrium Between Work and Education

The amended rules in Canada are intended to assist students in striking a better work-study balance. Canada promotes a sustainable study schedule by increasing the weekly maximum to 24 hours, which allows for greater work opportunities while maintaining academic obligations as the top priority.

4. Educational Institutions’ Reporting Requirements

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now require designated educational institutions to submit reports twice a year. To make sure students fulfill the conditions for a study permit, these reports will confirm their enrollment and academic achievement. The integrity of Canada’s International Student Program is upheld by this step.

5. Modifications to Transfers to Designated Learning Institutions

Before transferring to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), new regulations require approval. Before switching schools, international students must apply for a new study permission, which enforces adherence to permit requirements and upholds academic standards throughout all Canadian educational institutions.

Particular Workplace Regulations for Students in Quebec

If they fulfill specific requirements, international students in Quebec are permitted to work off-campus without a separate work permit. Students must be enrolled full-time in a secondary vocational training program or a post-secondary vocational, professional, or training program in order to be eligible. A degree, diploma, or certificate must be earned at the end of the course, which must last at least six months.

Canada’s Future Immigration Plans

The goal of Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan is to progressively lower the number of temporary residents. This endeavor is in line with the nation’s temporary resident programs’ overarching objectives, which center on maintaining a sustainable and well-balanced immigration system.

Conclusion

International students now have more options and freedom thanks to Canada’s decision to increase the off-campus job limit. By assisting students in striking a balance between academic achievement and worthwhile work experience that complements their studies, this modification seeks to improve the International Student Program.