Canada Increases Work Hour Limit to 24 Hours Per Week for International Students

Canada has officially lifted the weekly work limit for international students.

International students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during their academic term. Effective November 15, 2024, this change comes as a part of Canada's ongoing commitment to support international students.

Earlier, international students were restricted to working a maximum of 20 hours per week while their academic term was in session. It was a restriction designed to ensure they focused primarily on their education. However, the updated policy gives students more financial flexibility. Violating these new guidelines may lead to penalties, including a potential loss of their Canada Study Visa.

Impact of this Change on International Students

This change will impact international students in these three ways:-

• The additional four work hours per week provide an opportunity for students to earn more income to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other necessities.
• This adjustment is especially significant for students facing financial pressures due to rising costs of living.
• It will allow students to gain more work experience and prepare them better for the Canadian job market post-graduation.

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Who Can Work Off-Campus Without a Work Permit?

Students must meet these criteria:-

• Full-Time Enrollment: The student must be enrolled full-time at a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

• Eligible Study Program: The student must be enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program.

• Program Duration: The program must be at least six months long.

• Study Permit Conditions: Students must hold a valid study permit which allows them to do off-campus work.

• Social Insurance Number (SIN): A valid SIN is required to work legally in Canada.

Restrictions on Off-Campus Work

Certain conditions disqualify students from working off-campus:-

• Non-Eligible Programs: Students enrolled in English or French as a second language programs, general interest courses, or preparatory courses are not eligible.

• Prohibitive Study Permit Conditions: If the study permit clearly states that off-campus work is not allowed.

• Inactive Enrollment: Students on authorized leave or those transitioning between institutions without active enrollment cannot work off-campus.

The Canadian government emphasizes that this change is designed to strike a balance between supporting students financially and ensuring academic success remains the priority. By expanding the work-hour limit, Canada demonstrates its commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for international students. For international students moving to Canada, this new policy marks a step towards integration into Canadian society.

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Source: canada.ca

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