It’s Official! Students Can Work 24 Hours A Week During Term Time

But it isn’t all great news. As of November 15, 2024, other regulations introduced alongside increased hours will also come into effect. 

Here is what you need to know. 

Key Features Of The New Regulations:

• Off-Campus Work Limit Adjustment: Eligible international students are now permitted to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while their classes are in session. 
• Approval Required for Institutional Changes: International students who wish to change their designated learning institution (DLI) must now apply and be approved for a new study permit before making the switch. 
• Enhanced Accountability for DLIs: Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are now required to maintain stricter compliance with IRCC reporting requirements. Institutions that fail to submit compliance reports or verify acceptance letters may face suspension from admitting new international students for up to one year. This change ensures that DLIs actively contribute to upholding the program’s standards.

Collectively, these proposed changes were first proposed in July 2024. You can read our full coverage of this here. 

Quick Overview: How Many Hours Per Week Can Students Work Off-Campus?

In case you’re confused, here is a summary of how many hours international Students can work off-campus:

During Term Time: 

International students who are eligible to work off-campus during term time can work  24 hours per week (effective November 15, 2024).

During Scheduled Breaks: 

International students who are eligible to work off-campus can work full-time during scheduled breaks. There is no definition of how many hours make up full-time work. 

Work After Graduation: 

Upon Graduation, an international student may work full-time if they have applied for a Post Graduation Work Permit or will be starting a new Study program. 

Historically, How Many Hours Could Students Work?

It is important to comply with study permit requirements throughout your studies.
Working 24 hours a week during term time has not always been permitted. You must ensure that you have only worked the maximum hours allowed at the time you undertook the work. Given the recent changes, we have provided a summary below for your reference:

Pre-April 22nd, 2020, International students were permitted to work 20 hours a week off campus during term time and full-time hours a week during school holidays.

April 22nd, 2020 to April 29th, 2024- International students could work full-time hours a week during term time and school holidays.

April 30th, 2024 to November 7th, 2024- International students were permitted to work 20 hours a week during term time and full-time hours a week during school holidays.

Since November 8th, 2024- International students are permitted to work 24 hours a week during term time and full-time hours a week during school holidays.

For more information about the changes to the International Student Program, check out the below resources:

Sudden End To Fast-Tracked Study Permit Applications

Sweeping Changes to Canada’s Study Program

IRCC to track attendance

International Student Cap Allocation