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International Students in Canada can now Work 24 Hours Off-Campus per week
Effective November 8, 2024, international students in Canada can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular academic terms without requiring a work permit. This update provides students with greater flexibility to gain valuable work experience while supporting their education. By allowing students to work more hours, this change aims to foster financial independence and help students build professional skills that enhance their resumes.
However, specific eligibility requirements and conditions apply. Here’s what you need to know to ensure compliance while making the most of your work opportunities.
Eligibility to Work Off-Campus
You can work off-campus without a work permit if:
- You’re a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- You’re enrolled in:
- A post-secondary program (academic, vocational, or professional training) or
- A secondary-level vocational program (Quebec only).
- Your study program is:
- At least 6 months long and
- Leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- You’ve already started studying.
- You have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Part-time students can also work if:
- It’s your final semester, and you don’t need a full course load to graduate.
- You were a full-time student for the duration of your program in Canada, up until your final semester.
Work Hours Guidelines
1. During Regular Semesters:
- You can work up to 24 hours per week.
- You may hold multiple jobs as long as your combined hours don’t exceed the limit.
2. During Scheduled Breaks:
- Unlimited hours are allowed (e.g., winter and summer holidays).
- You can take courses part-time or full-time during the break while still working full-time.
3. Programs Without Scheduled Breaks:
- You must adhere to the 24-hour weekly limit throughout the year.
Important:
Exceeding the 24-hour weekly limit during regular terms is a violation of your study permit and can lead to serious consequences, including losing your student status or having to leave Canada.
Who Can’t Work Off-Campus?
You’re not eligible to work off-campus if:
- Your study permit explicitly states that you’re not authorized to work.
- You’re only enrolled in:
- English/French as a second language (ESL/FSL) programs.
- General interest courses.
- Prerequisite courses for admission into a full-time program.
- You’re on an authorized leave from your studies or transitioning between schools.
Working After Completing Your Program
You may work full-time if:
- You’ve applied for a work permit (e.g., Post-Graduation Work Permit) before your study permit expires.
- You’re starting a new study program within 150 days of completing your current program.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
A SIN is mandatory to work in Canada. Ensure your study permit includes work authorization conditions, such as:
- “May work 24 hours per week off campus…” or
- “May accept employment on or off campus…”
If your study permit lacks these conditions, request an amendment at no extra cost.
Compliance and Responsibility
International students must:
- Track their work hours.
- Ensure they remain eligible to work under their study permit conditions.
- Actively pursue their studies.
Conclusion
These updated rules open up new opportunities for international students to gain work experience and support their studies. However, staying informed about eligibility requirements and conditions is crucial to maintaining your student status.
For further assistance, contact your institution’s international student office or consult the Government of Canada website.
Source: Government of Canada
