Regulations On Working Hours For International Students In Canada

With the recent policy shifts from IRCC, it is more important than ever for international students to understand the specific boundaries of their work authorization. Violating these terms can lead to the refusal of future Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) or even removal from Canada.

 

Here is the detailed breakdown of the current regulations:

1. Off-Campus Work Authorization (Academic Sessions)

The permanent limit for off-campus work has been established at 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions.

- Definition of a "Week": For IRCC purposes, a week is defined as a seven-day period starting on Sunday and ending on Saturday.

- Eligibility: You must be a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program of at least six months in duration.

- Exceptions: You may work off-campus as a part-time student only during your final academic semester, provided you were a full-time student for every other semester of your program.

 

2. Full-Time Work During Scheduled Breaks

Students are permitted to work full-time during "scheduled breaks" such as winter and summer holidays or spring reading weeks.

- Conditions: You must maintain full-time enrollment status before and after the break.

- Maximum Duration: Full-time work during scheduled breaks is capped at 180 days per calendar year.

- Inter-session Work: If you are not enrolled in classes during a summer term that is considered a scheduled break by your institution, you may work full-time.