Maple News reports that international students in Canada will soon face new limitations on working hours during their studies. As of September 2024, the federal government will reintroduce a 24-hour weekly cap on off-campus work during academic sessions, as announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This change marks the end of a temporary measure introduced in 2022, which allowed students to work without hour restrictions to offset labor shortages during the pandemic.
With reduced working hours on the horizon, it’s now more critical than ever for international students to secure part-time jobs offering strong hourly wages. Maple News has compiled a list of five high-paying part-time positions that are both accessible to students and exceed the minimum wage in most provinces.
The following roles were selected based on data from reputable Canadian sources such as Job Bank and major employment platforms. They offer flexible hours, steady pay, and skill-building opportunities relevant to many academic backgrounds.
1. Administrative Clerk – Median Pay: $22.50/hour
This office-based role involves preparing documents, handling data entry, answering calls, and maintaining filing systems. Administrative jobs offer stability and require relatively low mental exertion, making them ideal for students balancing work and academics.
2. Tutor – Median Pay: $20–$30/hour (depending on subject and qualifications)
Tutoring fellow students—either in person or online—can be a rewarding and high-paying opportunity. Students with advanced skills in subjects like mathematics, science, or languages can command hourly rates well above the national minimum wage.
3. Customer Service Representative – Median Pay: $20/hour
Many businesses, especially online retailers and service providers, hire part-time staff to respond to customer inquiries. Strong communication skills and a friendly attitude are essential, and remote roles are often available, providing added flexibility.
4. Barista or Server at Upscale Cafés/Restaurants – Median Pay: $16–$20/hour (plus tips)
While base wages can be modest, jobs in busy or upscale hospitality venues can result in significant tip income, sometimes pushing total hourly earnings well above $25.
5. Freelance Designer or Content Creator – Median Pay: Varies (average $25–$40/hour depending on expertise)
For students with digital skills in graphic design, video editing, or writing, freelancing offers both flexibility and high earning potential. Platforms for such jobs are widely available and popular in Canada’s growing digital economy.
International students in Canada now face tighter time constraints, but with strategic job choices, it’s still possible to earn a competitive income without compromising academic success. Maple News will continue to cover the evolving student work landscape and provide trusted updates as policies and opportunities shift.