The opportunity to work while studying is a key driver for many international students. In fact, in our most recent ApplyBoard Student Pulse Survey, we found that only 2 percent of surveyed students weren’t planning to work at all while completing their program. So, if you’re planning to become an international student in Canada, it’s important to understand how many hours you can work off-campus. Keep reading for the latest updates.
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How Are International Student Work Hours Changing?
In April 2024, during an Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) press conference, the Honourable Marc Miller announced the temporary policy which allowed international students to work more than 20 hours per week in off-campus jobs would not be renewed again.
This meant that as of April 30, 2024, Canada’s standing policy returned, allowing eligible students to work up to 20 hours per week in off-campus jobs. However, Minister Miller also shared that number would increase in Fall 2024.
As of November 8, 2024, eligible international students may work up to 24 hours per week off-campus in Canada.
Curious about working while studying in Canada? From work eligibility to great on-campus jobs, our blog’s got the info you need.
When Will the Policy Change?
Starting on November 8, 2024, eligible international students enrolled in full-time study in Canada may work 24 hours or fewer in off-campus jobs while class is in session.
During a scheduled academic break, students may work full-time hours until the new term starts. This can include the summer term, if you’re not taking any classes, or the winter holiday period.
Per the Government of Canada, “There is no set number of hours per week that counts as ‘full-time’ work. However, your employer(s) must follow all provincial laws on overtime pay and time between shifts.”
Canada’s revised international student work hour allowance (24 hours per week) is one of the most generous in major Anglophone study destinations. It previously matched Ireland and the United Kingdom at 20 hours per week. After the changes this fall, it essentially matches Australia’s policy, which is 48 hours over a two-week period. Conversely, the United States is more particular about which students may work off-campus.
Which International Students’ Work Hours are Changing?
It’s important to remember this policy update only impacts off-campus work. If you work on-campus, the rules which guide how much you can work aren’t changing. In fact, if you’re an international student who’s eligible to work on-campus, you still don’t have a cap on the maximum number of hours you can work.
It can be challenging to stand out at campus job fairs. Use our strategies to make a great first impression!
No matter if you’re an international student who’s employed on or off campus, plan out your study time, work time, and rest time carefully. Students who work over 28 hours each week are more likely to see their grades drop. Post-secondary study is absolutely about challenging yourself, learning new things, and network-building. But it’s also vital to take care of your physical and mental health so you can meaningfully leverage the skills you’ve built.
Start your study journey today: explore top institutions in Canada on the ApplyBoard platform.
