Understanding Canada’s Revised Off-Campus Work Rules for International Students: A Comprehensive Guide

Effective November 8, 2024, Canada has introduced updated regulations allowing international students to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week during academic terms. This policy aims to balance academic priorities with financial support opportunities, making it crucial for students to understand and comply with these new requirements.

Who Can Work Off-Campus?

To work off-campus without a work permit, students must meet the following criteria:

• Full-time Enrollment: Students must be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Program Requirements: The program must be at least 6 months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Active Status: Students must have commenced their studies.
• Possession of a Social Insurance Number (SIN): This is mandatory for any employment in Canada.

Part-Time Students
Part-time students may work off-campus if they meet all other eligibility criteria and are in their final semester, requiring a reduced course load to graduate.

How Many Hours Can You Work?

1. During Academic Terms: Students can work up to 24 hours per week across one or multiple jobs.
2. During Scheduled Breaks: Students may work unlimited hours during breaks such as winter holidays, summer vacations, or reading weeks, provided they are full-time students before and after the break.
3. Programs Without Scheduled Breaks: The 24-hour limit remains applicable throughout the year.

Important Note: Violating these conditions can lead to losing student status and impact future visa applications.

Steps to Start Working Off-Campus

1. Check Your Study Permit Conditions
   Ensure your permit includes a statement authorizing off-campus work. If it does not, you must request an amendment before applying for a SIN.
2. Obtain a SIN
   Apply for a SIN through Service Canada. This 9-digit number is essential for legal employment.

Who Cannot Work Off-Campus?

Students are ineligible to work off-campus if:

• Their study permit explicitly states they are not authorized to work.
• They are enrolled in English/French as a Second Language (ESL/FSL) programs, general interest courses, or prerequisite courses.
• They are on authorized leave or between academic programs without active enrollment.

Special Cases: Working After Program Completion

Students may work full-time post-graduation if they:

• Have applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) before their study permit expires.
• Are transitioning to a new full-time study program within 150 days of completing their previous program.

Working Outside Canada

International students can work remotely for employers outside Canada without impacting their 24-hour work limit, provided they meet all conditions of their study permit.

Compliance and Documentation

Students must:

• Track their working hours diligently.
• Demonstrate they are actively pursuing studies and adhering to work conditions.
• Keep records of employment to avoid potential issues with immigration authorities.

Key Takeaways for International Students

The revised off-campus work policy provides international students with greater clarity and flexibility, increasing the work limit to 24 hours per week while safeguarding academic performance. To ensure compliance:

• Understand the conditions on your study permit.
• Plan finances strategically, balancing work hours with academic responsibilities.
• Explore internships and co-op opportunities for skill development.

How IVS Solutions Can Help

Navigating study permits and work regulations can be complex, but IVS Solutions is here to guide you. Our team specializes in study abroad counseling, helping students align their academic and career goals with Canadian immigration policies. Contact us for expert advice and start your Canadian journey on the right note!