The Canadian government has revised its regulations, allowing eligible international students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms, an increase from the previous limit of 20 hours.
Canada Now Allows Foreign Students To Work 24 Hours
This modification seeks to enhance opportunities for students to acquire practical work experience while preserving their academic priorities.
Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, emphasized the purpose of this policy adjustment, stating, “This modification will provide students with increased flexibility in managing their time and acquiring practical experience.”
The decision is based on Miller’s previous statements in October 2022, where he highlighted the significance of practical work experience for international students.
At that moment, he mentioned that given the economy’s growth rate surpassing the rate at which employers can hire new employees, Canada must explore all available options to ensure we possess the necessary skills and workforce to sustain our growth.
“Immigration will be crucial to addressing our labour shortage. By allowing international students to work more while they study, we can help ease pressing needs in many sectors across the country, while providing more opportunities for international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience and continue contributing to our short-term recovery and long-term prosperity.”
International students can now work full-time during designated academic breaks, such as summer and winter holidays. These periods allow students to increase their earnings without interfering with class schedules, bolstering their financial stability while continuing their education.
The updated regulations permit students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms. This increase offers greater employment opportunities while ensuring students can maintain a sustainable study schedule.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are now kindly requested to submit reports twice a year to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These reports will help confirm students’ enrollment status and academic progress, ensuring adherence to study permit requirements and maintaining the integrity of the International Student Program.
Under the new rules, international students must obtain approval before transferring to a different DLI. This requirement ensures adherence to permit conditions and maintains academic standards across Canada’s institutions.
In Quebec, eligible international students can work off-campus without a separate work permit, provided they meet specific criteria. Students must be enrolled full-time in post-secondary, vocational, or professional training programs, or vocational training at the secondary level. These courses must be at least six months long and lead to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate.
By implementing these initiatives, Canada seeks to improve prospects for international students while simultaneously addressing labor shortages in crucial industries, thereby striking a harmonious balance between practical work experience and academic achievement.
