Have Work Hours Increased For International Students?

Work Off Campus

International students working for an employer not covered by the “on-campus” definition must follow the rules regarding off-campus work. International students working off-campus must work a reduced number of hours during school terms versus scheduled breaks. 

During school terms, international students working for an off-campus employer can work up to 20 hours per week, until further notice.

During scheduled breaks, international students can work an unlimited number of hours. No maximum number of hours per week is set; however, provincial laws when it comes to work conditions (overtime pay and shift timing etc) must be respected.  

International students who have completed their study program and applied for a work permit before the expiry of their study permits are also permitted to work full-time.

International students who have become accustomed to working full-time over the summer break may need to reign in their spending to adjust to these reduced hours. Be sure to check out our page budgeting as an international student. 

It is expected that IRCC will soon announce an increase to allow international students to work up to 24 hours per week during term time.