Canada raises working hours for foreign students, tightens school transfer rules

PTC News Desk: Canada has raised the number of hours international students can work off-campus during academic sessions as part of a significant revamp to its International Student Programme. Eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week, up from the previous maximum of 20.

In early September, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that a new rule limiting international students' work hours to 24 hours per week would go into effect later this autumn.

Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, has announced that the change is now officially in force as part of new regulations aimed at strengthening the program's integrity.

This expanded work-hour limit is expected to provide students with additional financial freedom while allowing them to focus on their academics during lengthy holidays. This also handles possible labour shortages.

However, Canada implemented stricter rules for switching educational institutions. International students must now apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before making such modifications.

Canada has halted the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which has accelerated study visa processing for Indian students for the last six years.

While this adjustment is part of a larger effort to match temporary residency with Canada's long-term economic objectives, it has significant implications for Indian students. Applications received under the SDS programme before the November 8, 2024, 2 p.m. ET deadline will still receive speedier processing. However, new applicants must now go via the usual study permit process, which typically takes longer to complete.

Indian students, who account for a sizable share of Canada's international student population, must now navigate these developments with caution.

The expanded work hours are a comfort, but the cessation of the SDS program may cause delays in the permit application.