Canada Plans to Implement 24-Hour Work Limit for International Students Starting Fall

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EDUCAST, The temporary policy allowing international students in Canada to work more than 20 hours per week off-campus has come to an end, announced The Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. The waiver, which was extended in December, will not be further prolonged, with authorities opting for a change in the number of hours students may work off-campus per week to 24 hours starting from the upcoming fall semester.

Honorable Marc Miller acknowledged the significance of off-campus work for international students in gaining valuable experience and offsetting expenses. However, he emphasized that the primary purpose of students coming to Canada should be for studying, not for work. The decision to revert to a 24-hour limit is aimed at ensuring that students strike a balance between work and academic commitments, ultimately safeguarding the integrity of the student program.

While the previous policy permitted international students to work unlimited hours during scheduled academic breaks, the new change will affect their regular work hours during class sessions. The decision was made following an assessment of student needs, international policies, and research indicating a correlation between excessive work and compromised academic outcomes.

Speaking with reporters, Minister Miller highlighted the success of the temporary measure in aiding Canada’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he emphasized that with the current economic situation, the measure is no longer deemed necessary.

Addressing concerns raised by international students regarding financial strains and exploitation under the previous 20-hour limit, Minister Miller defended the decision to set the new limit at 24 hours per week. He noted that this aligns Canada with other likeminded countries such as the UK and Australia, where similar work hour limits are in place.

Miller explained that while allowing students to work up to 30 hours per week may seem beneficial, studies indicate a detrimental impact on academic performance beyond a certain threshold. The adjustment to a 24-hour limit aims to maintain a balance where students can engage in work without compromising their studies.

The decision comes amidst global efforts to address workforce shortages and support international students amidst rising costs. While the change may pose challenges for some students, it reflects Canada’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its educational programs while providing opportunities for international students to thrive academically and professionally.

Hari Khatri, CEO of Can Consulting Services, stated that the decision to implement a 24-hour work limit for international students in Canada starting fall aligns with the country’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its educational programs while providing opportunities for students to balance work and academic commitments effectively.

For additional details or inquiries about the educational opportunities provided by CAN Consulting Services, please explore their website at www.canconsultancy.com