Starting November 8, 2024, international students in Canada will have more flexibility in terms of part-time work opportunities. The Canadian government has updated its regulations, allowing full-time international students to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week without needing a work permit, an increase from the previous limit of 20 hours. This change aims to assist students in managing the high living costs in Canada.

Key Requirements for International Students

While this adjustment provides more freedom to work part-time, students must still meet specific eligibility criteria to work without a separate work permit. These requirements include:

• Full-Time Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Students must be enrolled at an accredited institution in Canada, participating in a full-time academic, vocational, or professional training program (or a secondary-level vocational program in Quebec).
• Program Length and Credentials: The study program must be at least six months long and lead to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Ongoing Studies: Students must be actively pursuing full-time studies.
• Social Insurance Number (SIN): A valid SIN is required for employment.

Students must cease working immediately if any of these conditions are no longer met.

Employers’ Responsibilities

Employers must verify that an international student meets all the requirements before hiring them. A valid study permit alone does not confirm that a student is legally authorized to work. Employers should also be aware of the student’s program end date, as the student must stop working once they receive official confirmation of completing their studies from the DLI.

Changes Affecting Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)

In addition to the changes regarding part-time work, there are new provisions impacting eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs). Students must remain enrolled at the DLI listed in their study permit. If they change institutions, they need to get a new study permit approved before making the switch. A study permit will also become invalid if the student is no longer enrolled at the designated institution, except after completing their studies.

These updates aim to ensure that students are attending genuine institutions that comply with both federal and provincial regulations. They also provide Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with the tools to take action against non-compliant educational institutions.