Key Takeaways
- International students in Canada can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus, increased from 20 hours
- The new rule takes effect from November 8, 2024, and doesn’t require a separate work permit
- Students can work full-time during scheduled academic breaks
- Canada plans significant reductions in international student intake and stricter visa norms
Canada has announced significant relief for international students by increasing off-campus working hours from 20 to 24 hours per week. The updated policy, effective November 8, 2024, allows study permit holders to work outside their educational institution campuses without needing a separate work permit.
Understanding Off-Campus Work Rules
Off-campus work refers to employment undertaken by study permit holders outside their registered educational institution. Under the new rules, students can work up to 24 hours weekly during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks between sessions.
The increased limit applies to students enrolled in designated learning institutions. However, students whose study permits explicitly prohibit off-campus work or those enrolled only in language programs cannot avail this benefit.
On-Campus Work Provisions
Full-time post-secondary students can work on their university or college campus without restrictions, provided they hold a valid study permit. This differs from off-campus work, which has specific hourly limits during academic sessions.
Changing Landscape for International Students
While increasing work hours, Canada is simultaneously implementing stricter visa norms, particularly for applicants from India and Bangladesh due to fraud concerns. According to CBC News, the government seeks authority to cancel specific visa applications.
Furthermore, Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan targets only 155,000 new student arrivals – a 49% reduction from previous targets. This indicates a significant shift in Canada’s international education strategy.
