In a move reflecting shifts in immigration regulations, Canada has announced updates to its off-campus work policies for international students. Spearheaded by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, these changes seek to harmonize the needs of international students with the integrity of Canada’s immigration framework.
Commencing from the fall semester of the current academic year, international students studying in Canada will now be permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during the academic term. This adjustment deviates from the prior temporary provision, which allowed students to exceed the standard 20-hour limit.
Eligibility Criteria for Off-Campus Employment
International students aspiring to work off-campus during the academic year must fulfill specific prerequisites:
Minister Miller elucidated that maintaining the work limit at 24 hours weekly aligns with considerations for students’ academic advancement. Surpassing this threshold, as previously proposed (30 hours per week), could potentially impede students’ academic progress.
The adjustment to 24 hours corresponds with augmented cost-of-living requisites for international students, as announced in December. Prospective study permit holders must exhibit financial stability, with a minimum savings threshold of $20,635, in addition to tuition expenses.
This policy overhaul forms part of a broader initiative by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to fortify the integrity of the international student program. Recent alterations encompass:
Canada’s recent revisions to off-campus work policies for international students underscore a commitment to harmonizing educational pursuits with immigration integrity. These adjustments are designed to bolster student support while upholding the integrity of the immigration system, ensuring that international students contribute positively to Canada’s academic milieu.