Off-Campus Work Hours for International Students Increased to 24 Hours Per Week

The Canadian government has announced changes to immigration rules, now permitting international students to work off-campus part-time for up to 24 hours per week without needing a separate work permit. This increase, which previously capped at 20 hours per week, officially took effect on November 8, 2024.

This update is part of the “Amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (Designated Learning Institutions)” and aims to provide financial relief for students as they navigate the costs of living in Canada.

Key Requirements for Off-Campus Employment:

To be eligible to work off-campus part-time, international students must meet the following conditions:

1. Be enrolled as a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Be participating in one of these types of programs:
   • Post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training.
   • Secondary-level vocational training (Quebec only).
3. The program must:
   • Last at least six months.
   • Lead to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate.
4. Be actively pursuing their studies full-time.
5. Hold a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Students are required to stop working immediately if any of these conditions are no longer met.

Employer Responsibilities:

Employers hiring international students for part-time work must verify the students’ legal eligibility. A study permit alone does not confirm their right to work. Employers should also ensure they are aware of the student’s program completion date, as employment must end once the student receives written confirmation of program completion from their institution.

Additional Impacts on Students:

The updated regulations also emphasize the importance of compliance for international students regarding their study permits and eligibility for post-graduation work permits (PGWP). Study permit holders must stay enrolled at the DLI listed on their permit. Any changes to a new DLI require prior approval of a new study permit. A study permit automatically becomes invalid if a student is no longer enrolled, except after completing their program.

These changes are designed to uphold the integrity of the study permit system, ensuring permits are issued to students attending compliant institutions. They also provide Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with better tools to address issues with non-compliant educational institutions.