International students in Canada are now permitted to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during their academic terms.
This update, confirmed by Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Marc Miller, officially took effect on November 15.
Previously, the weekly work limit was set at 20 hours.
In April 2024, Miller had announced the intention to increase the off-campus work hours to 24 for the fall term, though the specific date of implementation was not disclosed at the time.
Unlimited work hours for international students holding study permits
The work hour limits apply only to the time international students spend working off-campus while their classes are in session.
Students have always been, and continue to be, allowed to work unlimited hours:
- On-campus
- Off-campus during academic breaks, when classes are not in session.
Reason behind the change
Miller stated that the 24-hour limit provides “the right balance,” allowing students the opportunity to work without negatively impacting their academic performance.
New condition for study permit holders before switching schools
In today’s announcement, it was revealed that international students are now required to apply for a new study permit before switching schools.
Students must submit an application for a new study permit, and in some cases, receive approval, before transferring to a different designated learning institution (DLI).
Previously, students could change schools under the same study permit, as long as they updated their IRCC online account with the new details.
According to IRCC, these changes are part of ongoing efforts to “strengthen the integrity of the International Student Program.”
Recent adjustments to the work hour limits for international students
Traditionally, international students in Canada were permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic terms.
However, in response to the pandemic, the government introduced a temporary measure that allowed students to work beyond this limit, up to 40 hours per week.
This policy was aimed at addressing the country’s labour shortages while providing students with the opportunity to earn additional income.
The temporary measure concluded on April 30, 2024.
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FAQ’s About Working as an International Student in Canada
Can students work multiple jobs to meet the 24-hour limit?
Yes, students are allowed to work multiple part-time jobs, as long as the combined total does not exceed 24 hours per week during academic sessions.
Are remote jobs included in the 24-hour limit?
Remote work for Canadian employers is counted toward the 24-hour weekly limit. However, work for employers located outside of Canada is not included in this limit.
Can students work while waiting for a study permit extension?
Yes, students can continue to work while waiting for their study permit extension, provided they submitted the extension application before the original permit expired and meet all eligibility criteria.
What happens if a student’s enrollment status changes?
If a student reduces their course load to part-time or leaves their program, they must stop working off-campus until they regain full-time enrollment status and re-establish eligibility.
Can students work full-time immediately after finishing their program?
Yes, students are allowed to work full-time after completing their program, as long as they apply for a work permit before their study permit expires or if they are transitioning into another study program.
