Canada’s recent update about raising working hours for international students has become a relief and wave of excitement for many students who are dreaming of settling in Canada and getting meaningful work experience along with their studies. Studylead Consultants is providing this guide with an aim of making you realize the impact of the new work rules in Canada in relation to you as an international student. From breaking down Canada’s new work rule, its explanation, who can qualify and how students can manage their budget and future immigration goals this will provide you with every information you need to know.
What Has Changed In Work Hours.
The policy regarding international students working off campus has been changed in Canada.
Prior to the shift, the majority of students were able to work:
- As many as 20 hours per week in the general classes.
- Whole time on scheduled holidays such as the summer or winter holidays.
- Work on campus a maximum of 24 hours per week during regular classes.
- Continues to work full time during office holidays like summer, winter holidays and reading weeks.
This is not enormous, however, 4 hours weekly would change your budget at month end.
Quick Comparison Table
Situation | Old Rule | New Rule |
|---|---|---|
During regular classes | 20 hours per week | 24 hours per week |
At scheduled academic recesses. | Full time allowed | Full time allowed |
Need a separate work permit | Usually not, if eligible | Still not needed, if eligible |
Who Can Work Under The New Rules.
In Canada, you are normally permitted to work off campus provided that you:
- Have a valid study permit
- Full time student at a given learning institution (DLI)?
- Having enrolled in a degree, diploma, or certificate course of study of at least one year.
- Carry around with you a note on your permission to study that indicates that you are allowed to work on or off campus.
In the event that you are in your last semester and you are now studying on part time basis since it is your final term, then you might still be permitted to work provided that you were already subject to the full time rule.
Simple Eligibility Table
Requirement | What It Means For You |
|---|---|
Valid study permit | Not out of date, proper conditions inserted. |
Full time at a DLI | Attendance to a recognized college/university. |
Program length | Not short courses only but at least 6 months. |
Type of program | Granted degree, diploma, or certificate. |
Permit conditions | Must permits obviously off campus work. |
Social insurance number: Before applying to get a Social Insurance Number, you might need to seek an amendment of your work permit, which does not specify working conditions.
The importance of the extra working hours.
We have put the 24 hour limit to ensure you have more earnings and at the same time guard your study time.
Some benefits for students:
More money for living costs
- Most Canadian cities are not cheap in rent and food.
- One more 4 hours of working a week can pay the bills.
Better work experience
- You have time to experiment with part time jobs.
- You get to know about the way Canadian work places operate.
Better profile in future visas.
- The Canadian experience is applicable in situations when you are submitting your post graduate work permit (PGWP) or subsequent immigration programs.
How To Spend The New Hours Productively.
Additional working hours are also useful, but when done carelessly, they may damage your grades. Here are some practical tips.
Plan Your Week
Keep a clear timetable for
- Classes
- Study time
- Work shifts
Do not leave all the assignments to the weekend.
Earned money may be good, but you should not accept all the shifts that your employer offers simply because it is good.
Select Occupation that suits your Ambitions.
Wherever possible, find those jobs that relate to your long term plans, such as:
Business students
- Retail, bank, customer service.
IT students
- Tech support, minor web projects, in-house help desk.
Students in health or social science.
- Nursing homes, recreational centers, mentoring.
You get something even when the job is easy:
- Communication skills
- Local references
- The trust in English or French.
Stay Within The Rules
During regular classes, you are not supposed to work longer than what is permitted. Overworking can:
- Violence to the terms of thy study authorize.
- Gamble with your future visa or PGWP applications.
- Cause trouble in case IRCC verifies your records.
Final Thoughts
Your choice to increase the number of off campus working hours of international students to 24 hours per week will provide you with better freedom and support. Simultaneously, you need to guard your primary objective that is to succeed in your education and finish it in time. In case you are not familiar with the way between how to study, work, and immigration plans, Studylead Consultants is prepared to help you in the process step by step. So contact Studylead consultants and don’t miss the chance to fulfil your dream.
FAQs
Have a valid study permit
Have full time status at a DLI in an eligible program.
Have your study permit written in work authorization.