The Federal government restricts work hours for international students

International students in Canada will soon face a new restriction on their work hours. Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced that starting this fall, international students will be capped at working 24 hours per week. This policy marks a return to the limits that were in place before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The government’s decision aims to help students balance their academic responsibilities with the option to work. By reintroducing this limit, officials believe students can better focus on their studies without becoming overwhelmed by work commitments. The 24-hour cap is intended to provide a more manageable workload, allowing students to support themselves financially while still prioritizing their education.

However, the new policy has raised concerns among many students. With the cost of living on the rise, some worry that working only 24 hours a week might not be enough to cover their expenses. For international students who rely on part-time work to support themselves, this restriction could make it more difficult to meet their financial needs.

Currently, students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week if their permits allow off-campus employment. The new 24-hour limit will apply to all international students, but the exact date for when this policy takes effect has not been announced. The announcement only indicated that the changes would come into effect “this fall,” leaving students and institutions waiting for further details.

Key questions remain unanswered. Students are eager to know the specific start date for the new policy, as well as how it will be enforced. There is also uncertainty about whether universities and colleges will need to monitor student's work hours and what systems will be in place to ensure compliance with the new limit.

Additionally, the impact of this policy on the broader labour market is a concern. With rising unemployment rates, there are questions about how limiting student work hours will affect both the students and the job market.

As the Canadian government finalizes the details of this policy, it will be important to address these concerns. Clear guidelines on eligibility, enforcement, and support for students will be crucial to ensure a smooth transition. The policy could offer significant benefits by helping students maintain a better balance between work and study, but its success will depend on how well it is implemented and how the needs of students are met.

Until more information is available, international students and educational institutions will be closely watching for updates. The government’s next steps will be crucial in determining how this policy will impact students’ financial stability and academic success.