In a bid to refine Canada’s approach to the International Student Program, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced reforms aimed at bolstering system integrity and safeguarding students from potential risks. On April 29, 2024, IRCC announced that the temporary policy allowing students to work over 20 hours per week off campus will not receive an extension. However, starting this fall, international students may have the opportunity to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week.

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End of Temporary Policy: Off-Campus Work Hours

Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, disclosed an update to the International Student Program today. He stated that the temporary policy permitting students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus will conclude on April 30, 2024, without an extension. 

Marc Miller highlighted the primary objective of students’ presence in Canada, emphasizing their academic pursuits. Nevertheless, the updated policy seeks to strike a balance by providing students with the option to work, if necessary, while maintaining their academic commitments.

Upcoming Policy Change in Fall: 24-Hour Work Limit

Instead, IRCC is planning to revise the policy that is anticipated to take effect this fall, granting international students the opportunity to work up to 24 hours per week off campus.

Continued Flexibility During Summer Session

Moreover, with the approaching summer session, students with scheduled academic breaks will be permitted to continue working unlimited hours.

The decision to implement these changes was based on an evaluation of student needs, international policies, and research findings regarding the potential impact of excessive work hours on academic performance. The new policy aims to ensure that students have the flexibility to work without compromising their educational endeavors.

Further details regarding the new policy adjustments are anticipated to be released in due course.

For more details, please visit the official news release on IRCC’s website.

Visit TWA Canada Immigration News for more related updates.