Maple News reports that Canada will revise its work policy for international students starting in Fall 2024, setting a new weekly work cap of 24 hours for off-campus employment during academic sessions. The change follows the conclusion of a temporary measure that allowed students to work unlimited hours while classes were in session.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed in an April 29 press conference that it will not renew the temporary policy introduced in late 2022. That policy had been designed to address nationwide labor shortages and to offer greater flexibility to international students coping with high living costs. As of this fall, the new limit of 24 hours per week marks an increase from the pre-2022 cap of 20 hours but puts an end to the unlimited work period.
The revised policy keeps the provision for full-time work during scheduled breaks like summer vacations, winter holidays, and reading weeks. This aims to help international students better manage their finances while maintaining a focus on their academic goals.
Maple News notes that the move aligns Canada more closely with international norms. A recent ApplyBoard study identified the top five destinations for global learners in 2023, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Germany. When comparing work rights:
In the United States, international students on F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during study periods. Off-campus employment is more limited and conditional, often requiring authorization.
The United Kingdom limits international students to either 10 or 20 hours per week of work, depending on their visa type and academic level, according to the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
Australia, another top destination, allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (equivalent to 24 hours per week), similar to Canada’s updated policy.
Germany also permits international students to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, averaging roughly 20 hours per week, not including internships tied to academic programs.
Ultimately, Canada’s new policy strikes a balance between student welfare and academic integrity, expanding work flexibility while encouraging full-time study as the primary focus.
With this move, Canada reinforces its appeal to international students by aligning work options with global standards — while offering slightly more flexibility than some peers.