The Government of Canada’s temporary reprieve on off-campus work hour limits for eligible international post-secondary students is set to expire on December 31.
Last year, the government announced that from November 15, 2022, until December 31, 2023, international students in Canada who have off-campus work authorization on their study permit will be able to work over the previously restricted 20 hours per week while classes are in session.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada says it is in the process of assessing the impact the policy has had, including how many eligible international students have taken advantage of it. The ministry says it will let the public know if there will be any changes.
Employers in Canada have been facing challenges in finding and retaining workers and the temporary measure was introduced to help address the country’s current labour needs while allowing international students to earn more work experience in Canada.
The BC Federation of Students is calling for an indefinite extension to the temporary lifting of the work-week cap for international students.
“By providing more flexibility in terms of work hours, the government can help international students overcome financial challenges, but also foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for those who choose to study in Canada,” the federation said in a statement. “Making this change permanent would yield substantial benefits for students, the labour force, and ultimately strengthening Canada’s long-term prosperity.”
Canada is home to more than 500,000 international students.
Published on December 1, 2023.
