Canada Implements Restrictions on Working Hours for Foreign Students

Canada has announced measures to cap the working hours of international students, with the policy change set to take effect from the fall semester onwards. Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marc Miller disclosed the decision, citing the expiration of a temporary policy that permitted foreign students to work more than 20 hours per week.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the new regulation will limit international students to working up to 24 hours per week, a significant reduction from the previous allowance of 40 hours per week. However, students will retain the flexibility to work unlimited hours during scheduled summer breaks.

Additionally, IRCC revealed that international students enrolled in college programs at private institutions operating under licensing agreements with public counterparts will no longer qualify for post-graduate work permits upon graduation, effective for admissions on or after May 15 this year.

Minister Miller emphasized the importance of maintaining the focus on academic pursuits for international students, stating, “People coming to Canada as students must be here to study, not work.” He highlighted the role of off-campus work in providing valuable experience and offsetting expenses for students, while underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of student programs.

The policy adjustment aims to strike a balance between facilitating work opportunities for students and preserving academic outcomes. IRCC reiterated that the primary purpose of students coming to Canada should be to pursue their studies.

While these measures address concerns about potential misuse of study permits as a pathway to work in Canada, they have also drawn criticism. Some organizations, particularly within the Indo-Canadian community, have raised issues regarding the challenges faced by students in managing living expenses with reduced working hours.

India represents the largest source country for international students in Canada, with a significant proportion of study permits issued to Indian nationals. The government’s decision reflects its efforts to manage the influx of international students while ensuring their academic success and contributing to the integrity of Canada’s immigration programs.