Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will not renew the temporary policy that allowed international students to work unlimited hours off-campus during academic sessions. Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed that starting this fall semester, international students will be limited to 24 hours of off-campus work per week while classes are in session.
The decision marks the end of a temporary measure introduced in October 2022 that allowed international students to work beyond the previous 20-hour weekly cap. That policy was aimed at addressing labor shortages during the pandemic recovery and was extended several times. However, the IRCC has now decided to transition to a more regulated approach.
Minister Miller cited academic performance as a key concern behind the change. In his announcement, he stated that working 30 hours a week could negatively impact students’ studies and compromise their primary objective—education. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between work and academics for student success.
The Minister also noted that the revised 24-hour weekly limit aligns with Canada’s broader immigration goals. By imposing this cap, the government aims to discourage foreign nationals from using study permits primarily as a backdoor to work in Canada rather than for genuine educational purposes.
In addition, Miller referenced the recent increase in the cost-of-living requirement for international students. As of December, study permit applicants must show they have at least $20,635 in available funds—excluding tuition fees. With this additional financial requirement in place, the IRCC expects fewer students will rely heavily on income from part-time work.
Students on academic breaks can still work unlimited hours off-campus. However, those taking summer courses must follow the updated 20-hour weekly rule, which remains in effect unless they have formal breaks.
This is part of a broader series of reforms introduced by IRCC to enhance the integrity of Canada’s international student program. Other recent policy updates include tightening eligibility criteria for study permits and increasing oversight of educational institutions.
Maple News will continue to monitor these changes, providing detailed analysis and updates for students considering Canada as their destination for world-class education.