This looks like some good news for international students living or planning to move to Canada. Canada has now extended eligible international students’ work hours during academic terms from 20 to 24 hours per week.
Contrary to popular belief, the purpose of this work hour extension is to increase the work experience for international students while they continue to focus on their academics.
Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister, emphasized the purpose of this policy change, stating, “This change will give students more flexibility to manage their time and gain practical experience.”
The move follows Miller’s remarks in October 2022, when he underlined the value of work experience for international students.
He further stated, “With the economy growing at a faster rate than employers can hire new workers, Canada needs to look at every option so that we have the skills and workforce needed to fuel our growth.
“Immigration will be crucial to addressing our labour shortage. By allowing international students to work more while they study, we can help ease pressing needs in many sectors across the country, while providing more opportunities for international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience and continue contributing to our short-term recovery and long-term prosperity.”
International students can now work full-time during specific academic vacations, such as the summer and winter holidays. These intervals allow students to boost their earnings without disrupting their class schedules, thus improving their financial stability while continuing their studies.
The new restrictions allow students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms. This rise provides more work alternatives while allowing students to retain a reasonable academic schedule.
Designated Educational Institutions (DLIs) must now submit reports twice a year to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These reports will certify students’ enrollment status and academic achievement, ensuring that study permit requirements are met and that the International Student Program maintains its integrity.
The new guidelines require overseas students to acquire approval before transferring to a different DLI. This criterion assures compliance with permit requirements and upholds academic standards across Canada’s universities.
In Quebec, qualifying overseas students can work off-campus without a separate work visa if they meet certain requirements. Students must be enrolled full-time in postsecondary, vocational, or professional training programs, as well as secondary vocational training. These courses must last at least six months and result in a recognized
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
