Canada to Allow International Students to Work 24 Hours Per Week
Canada to Allow International Students to Work 24 Hours Per Week
Introduction
As September approaches, significant changes are on the horizon for international students studying in Canada. Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced that, starting in Fall 2024, international students will be permitted to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week.
This adjustment comes as the Canadian government seeks to balance the needs of international students with broader immigration policies and labour market demands.
These increased hours represent a bump of 4 hours as international students are currently allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week. With this change, students may now have the flexibility to work three 8-hour shifts, providing both students and their employers with increased flexibility.
How does this change impact current international students?
During the height of the COVID-19 post-pandemic recovery, the Canadian government temporarily waived the 20-hour cap on work hours allowing some international students to work full-time off campus. The rationale was to provide post-pandemic economic support to employers where Canada experienced significant labour shortages while allowing international students to ease the financial burdens of tuition and living expenses as they pursued their studies.
This measure was later extended in December 2023 allowing international students to continue their unlimited off-campus work. As part of this announcement on the permanent increase in work hours allowance for international students, the Minister also announced an end to this earlier public policy. Certain international students who were allowed to work full-time off campus will no longer be able to do so beyond April 30, 2024.
International students will now be required to reduce their work time back to the previous 20 hours per week until this new 24-hour policy comes into effect in the fall.
Protecting Education Amid Economic Needs
Minister Miller emphasized that while Canada welcomes international students, the primary purpose of their presence in the country is to study, not to work.
By aligning with policies in other countries, Canada aims to ensure that its programs attract students genuinely committed to their education.
The decision to set the work limit at 24 hours per week reflects a balance between the needs of students and the government’s concerns about potential abuses of the system.
Minister Miller cited internal department data showing that a significant portion of international students are already working more than 20 hours per week.
Critics have raised concerns that allowing international students to work full-time could blur the line between study permits and work visas, undermining the integrity of both programs.
To address these concerns, the government is implementing measures to prevent abuse while still providing support to students.
Conclusion
It’s worth noting that there are no restrictions on the number of hours international students can work during periods when they are not actively enrolled in classes, such as summer breaks.
Miller also considered setting the work limit permanently at 30 hours per week but ultimately decided against it due to concerns about its potential impact on students’ academic performance.
As the government prepares to implement these changes, international students and stakeholders in the education sector should familiarize themselves with the new regulations and ensure compliance.
By striking a balance between supporting international students and safeguarding the integrity of immigration programs, Canada aims to maintain its reputation as a welcoming destination for students worldwide.
If you’re currently studying or planning to study in Canada and are concerned about how these potential changes could impact your academic journey and work opportunities, we’re here to help. Schedule a personalized one-on-one consultation with one of our knowledgeable immigration consultants to navigate these shifts seamlessly.
Our team of immigration consultants will assess your situation, guide you through the application process, and ensure your compliance with the new regulations. Contact us today to book your consultation and secure your path to success in Canada.
The Team at Northern Connections Canada
