As we approach 2024, there has been a significant development regarding Canada’s temporary work policy allowing some international students to work full-time off-campus.
The temporary work policy, initially set to expire on December 31, 2023, has now been extended, bringing a sigh of relief for many students.
IRCC Has Extended the Temporary Public Policy Set To Expire In 2023
IRCC recently announced an extension to the exemption from the 20-hour-per-week limit on off-campus work for international students until April 30, 2024.
The original policy, introduced in October 2022, was designed to address labor shortages and support international students financially. It was set to expire after its initial extension beyond the usual 20-hour work limit.
The recent announcement not only extends this exemption but also widens its scope. This means that international students already in Canada and those who applied for a study permit as of December 7, 2023, will be authorized to work more than 20 hours per week off campus until the specified date.
Furthermore, IRCC has indicated a consideration for potential future options, such as the possibility of increasing off-campus employment hours for international students to 30 hours per week while classes are in session.
This move aims to provide additional financial support and flexibility to students facing the challenges of higher living costs and inflation in Canada.
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Pre-existing Work Restrictions For International Students
Before this policy, international students were confined to working 20 hours per week off-campus during the school year, with the provision to work full-time during scheduled breaks.
However, this temporary policy allowed certain eligible students to exceed the 20-hour limit, and now there have been recent updates.
Who could benefit from working more hours under this IRCC policy?
This temporary measure applied to specific groups of international students. To qualify,
- International students had to be physically attending classes in Canada (not online from another country)
- Students should have off-campus work authorization on their study permit.
International students already in Canada and those who applied for a study permit as of December 7, 2023, could also take advantage of the temporary policy.
Addressing Affordability Crisis
The extension of this work policy comes as a relief to many, addressing concerns about affordability and allowing students to better manage their expenses, including tuition fees and rising living costs.
James Casey from the Canadian Federation of Students told CBC that reverting to the old rules would force international students to choose between breaking the policy or affording housing.
Will Canada Make The Policy Permanent?
While the extension until April 30, 2024, provides a temporary solution, the question of a permanent resolution remains unanswered.
Despite the ongoing need to address labor shortages, there’s no official word from the Canadian government on the permanency of this policy.
However, the extension does offer a reprieve for eligible international students, allowing them more time to work off-campus, which can significantly contribute to managing their expenses during their studies in Canada.
