Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is reminding international students to adhere to a strict 24-hour weekly work limit during academic sessions. Failure to comply risks serious immigration consequences, including removal from Canada.
Work Hour Limits Explained
Eligible international students can work a maximum of 24 hours per week when classes are in session. This rule applies to both on-campus and off-campus employment. The limit does not apply during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays, winter breaks, or reading weeks, when students can work unlimited hours.
To be eligible for work, students must hold a study permit that explicitly allows employment. All other eligibility requirements must also be met. IRCC urges students to carefully review their study permit conditions and meticulously track their work hours each week.
Consequences of Violating the Rule
Working more than the permitted 24 hours per week constitutes a violation of study permit conditions. Such violations can lead to several negative outcomes:
- Loss of student status in Canada.
- Ineligibility for future study or work permits.
- Potential removal from Canada.
- A permanent record of fraud with IRCC.
- A possible five-year ban on re-entry to Canada.
Exceeding work hour limits can also negatively impact future immigration applications, including those for permanent residence.
Post-Graduation Work Options
International students seeking to work in Canada after graduation typically require a separate work permit. Some graduates may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) . Eligible PGWP applicants can work full-time while their application is being processed, provided they meet specific conditions.
This reminder from IRCC comes as the Canadian government adjusts its international student program. The government aims to welcome 155,000 new international students by 2026.
