Starting this fall, international students in Canada will see a significant change in their ability to work while studying. Announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller in April, the new rule increases the off-campus work limit from 20 to 24 hours per week, allowing students more flexibility to earn while continuing their education.
This change is expected to take effect sometime this month, although the exact date is still pending. For now, the 20-hour weekly cap remains in place, with students eagerly awaiting the official announcement.
New Regulations for Off-Campus Work
The increase to 24 hours per week offers international students more freedom to work part-time jobs off-campus. This adjustment, according to Minister Miller, “strikes the appropriate balance so students have the option to work without compromising academic outcomes.”
Until the official implementation, students must abide by the current rule of working a maximum of 20 hours per week while their classes are in session. However, during scheduled school breaks like summer or winter holidays, there is no limit to how many hours students can work. This remains unchanged with the new rules. Off-campus jobs include positions with external employers, including self-employment opportunities such as Uber or DoorDash deliveries.
While these expanded work opportunities are valuable, students need to be cautious. Working beyond the permitted hours can lead to severe consequences, such as losing student status, being refused future study or work permits, and possibly even facing removal from Canada.
Eligibility for Working While Studying
Not all international students in Canada are eligible to work off-campus. To work without a separate work permit, students must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Hold a valid study permit.
- Study full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Maintain satisfactory academic standing and have already started their program.
- Be enrolled in an academic, vocational, or professional training program that is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Possess a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
For students to work full-time during scheduled breaks, they must be full-time students both before and after the break. Part-time students may work off-campus if they are in their final semester and were full-time in previous semesters.
However, students enrolled only in English or French language programs, taking general interest courses, or enrolled in preparatory courses do not qualify for off-campus work. They would need a separate work permit to work during their studies.
On-Campus Employment
International students also have the option to work on-campus, with no limit to the number of hours they can work. On-campus jobs can include positions with the school itself, its faculty, student organizations, or private businesses that operate within the campus grounds. Students can even work for themselves if they own a business located on-campus.
For students studying at institutions with multiple campuses, work is generally expected to be done on the campus where the student is enrolled. However, there can be exceptions, such as when students are working as research or teaching assistants or if their work is tied to a research grant.
Remote Work Opportunities
Another avenue for students is remote work for an employer based outside Canada. As long as this work complies with the conditions of the study permit, there is no limit on the number of hours students can work remotely, providing them with additional flexibility and income potential.
Provincial Minimum Wages
For those looking to work part-time, it’s important to understand the minimum wage in the province where they reside. The following table provides the latest minimum wage rates, along with their effective dates, across Canadian provinces and territories:
| Province/Territory | Minimum Wage | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $15.00 | 26 June 2019 |
| British Columbia | $17.40 | 1 June 2024 |
| Manitoba | $15.30 | 1 October 2023 |
| New Brunswick | $15.30 | 1 April 2024 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $15.60 | 1 April 2024 |
| Northwest Territories | $16.05 | 1 September 2023 |
| Nova Scotia | $15.20 | 1 April 2024 |
| Nunavut | $19.00 | 1 January 2024 |
| Ontario | $16.55 | 1 October 2023 |
| Ontario (second increase) | $17.20 | 1 October 2024 |
| Prince Edward Island | $15.40 | 1 April 2024 |
| Prince Edward Island (increase) | $16.00 | 1 October 2024 |
| Quebec | $15.75 | 1 May 2024 |
| Saskatchewan | $14.00 | 1 October 2023 |
| Saskatchewan (increase) | $15.00 | 1 October 2024 |
| Yukon | $17.59 | 1 April 2024 |
International students looking to maximize their earnings may consider jobs that pay above minimum wage, such as administrative roles, teaching assistantships, or translating services. However, they must always comply with the working hours permitted by their study permit.
Consequences of Violating Work Rules
It is crucial for international students to adhere to the rules regarding work hours. Exceeding the permitted hours could lead to severe consequences, such as:
- Losing student status.
- Denial of future study or work permits.
- Risk of being required to leave Canada.
In light of these risks, students are advised to stay informed of the latest regulations and ensure they remain compliant with the rules set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The increase in off-campus work hours from 20 to 24 per week provides international students in Canada with more flexibility to earn income while studying. However, the primary focus of studying in Canada should remain academic success. Minister Miller has emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of Canada’s student program, reminding students that they are in Canada “first and foremost” to study, not to work.
By understanding the new regulations, adhering to work limits, and maintaining academic standing, international students can make the most of their study experience in Canada while gaining valuable work experience.
