International students were allowed to work more than 20 hours a week
How long will it last?
Immigration Minister Marc Miller gave an update on the International Student Program. In addition to new financial requirements for those receiving study permits, he mentioned the worrisome restriction on the number of hours of work for all international students — and pleased many people.
How does it work now?
Canadian law allows foreign students who are in the country on a student visa to work no more than 20 hours per week. As of November 2022, there is a relaxation in this rule.
From November 15, 2022 to December 31, 2023, international students who are in Canada and have off-campus work permit on their study permit are not restricted by this rule — they can work as long as they see fit. This experiment was designed to help both Canada's struggling economy and students who were able to improve their financial situation and gain valuable work experience. So many were concerned about its imminent end.
What's changed?
The exemption from this restriction will be extended until April 30, 2024. International students already in Canada, as well as applicants who have had time to apply for a study permit through December 7, 2023, will be able to work off campus more than 20 hours a week until then — another 4 months.
Moreover, the ministry carved out this time not only for the students, but also for itself — to finalize the existing policy. Apparently, the experiment seemed successful enough for officials, as Miller also transparently hinted at further reform. Officials are seriously considering the option of increasing the current limit to 30 hours of off-campus work time per week while classes are in session.
So far, there is no talk of completely abolishing the restriction, as many student organizations would like to see. However, the government's willingness to move in this direction is encouraging.
