Source: Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
On April 29, 2024, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, announced changes to the off-campus work hours for international students. The temporary policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus will end on April 30, 2024. Starting this fall, students will be allowed to work up to 24 hours per week off campus.
This change aims to ensure that students prioritize their studies while still having the opportunity to work. During scheduled academic breaks, students can continue working unlimited hours. The decision was made after considering student needs, policies in other countries, and research indicating that excessive work hours negatively impact academic performance.
Additionally, the government is developing the Recognized Institutions Framework to reward post-secondary institutions that maintain high standards in selecting, supporting, and retaining international students. These efforts aim to protect students from financial vulnerability and uphold the integrity of the International Student Program.