Effective November 15, international students studying in Canada can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during their academic sessions. This new regulation, introduced by IRCC Minister Marc Miller, marks an increase from the previous limit of 20 hours per week, offering students greater opportunities to earn income while pursuing their studies.

The initiative to raise the off-campus work hour cap was first announced in April 2024, though the specific implementation date was only recently confirmed. The change aligns with Canada’s efforts to enhance the experience for international students, ensuring they have the financial flexibility to manage their expenses and contribute to the local economy.

By increasing the weekly work hours, Canada remains a leading choice for students from abroad, combining high-quality education with practical work opportunities.

Unlimited work hours for international students on study permits

The restrictions on work hours for international students apply only to off-campus employment during academic sessions when classes are in progress.

However, students are, and continue to be, allowed to work unlimited hours under the following conditions:

  • On-Campus Employment: Students can take on-campus jobs without any hourly restrictions throughout the year.
  • Off-Campus During Academic Breaks: Students may also work as many hours as they wish during scheduled breaks between academic terms, such as summer vacations, winter holidays, or reading weeks, when they are not attending classes.

This distinction ensures students can pursue full-time work opportunities during academic breaks while adhering to regulated work limits during their study sessions.

Explanation for the change 

Miller argues that the 24-hour work limit is a well-considered measure that strikes the right equilibrium, allowing students the opportunity to engage in employment while ensuring that their academic performance remains unaffected. This cap is designed to offer students the flexibility to earn income without putting their educational achievements at risk.

New condition for obtaining a study permit 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, and in some cases, receive approval for, a new study permit before transferring to a different designated learning institution (DLI). Previously, students were allowed to change schools under their existing study permit, provided they updated their information in their IRCC online account.

According to the IRCC, these updates are part of their ongoing efforts to “reinforce the integrity of the International Student Program.

Modifications to the working hours limit for international students in recent years 

International students in Canada have typically been permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic terms or semesters.

However, in response to the pandemic, the Canadian government introduced a temporary policy that allowed international students to work beyond the usual 20-hour limit, with the possibility of working up to 40 hours per week. This change was implemented to help address the country’s labor shortages while also providing students with the opportunity to earn additional income.

The temporary policy concluded on April 30, 2024, marking the end of the expanded work-hour limit.