Canada Approves 24 Hours Per Week Working Hours for International Students
For international students studying in Canada, the much-awaited update has finally arrived. International students are now permitted to work up to 24 hours a week during academic sessions, as of November 2024. The previous 20-hour work cap has been increased by four hours with this move, which was led by Immigration Minister Marc Miller.
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What is the Impact of these updates on international Students?
Let’s use a student who makes an average of $20 CAD per hour working part-time as a cashier. That would come to CAD $400 each week if you followed the previous rule of 20 hours per week.
With the new 24-hour limit now? That adds up to CAD $480 every week, which is an additional CAD $80.
This policy update aims to balance academic concentration and financial support, in addition to the obvious cha-ching factor. Students can better manage living expenses in Canada’s competitive market while upholding their academic commitments by working longer hours. It’s a delicate dance, but if you do it well, you’ll have fewer late-night “Can I afford this?” moments when you’re buying groceries or textbooks.
Example of Job Opportunities for Students:
Below are some common examples:
1. On-Campus Jobs
- Library Assistant: Help manage books, assist students, and maintain records.
- Research Assistant: Support professors in academic research projects.
- Campus Tour Guide: Show prospective students and visitors around the campus.
- Student Services Assistant: Work in administrative departments to assist staff and students.
2. Off-Campus Jobs
- Retail Assistant: Work in stores, stocking shelves, and assisting customers.
- Food Service Worker: Roles in cafes, restaurants, or fast-food outlets.
- Delivery Driver: Deliver packages or food via platforms like Uber Eats or DoorDash.
- Customer Service Representative: Work in call centers or front desks.
3. Internship/Co-op Opportunities
Many students enroll in programs offering co-op or internship placements in their field of study. Examples include:
- Software Development Intern: Tech companies like Shopify, Microsoft, or startups.
- Marketing Assistant: Roles in digital marketing agencies or corporate sectors.
- Engineering Trainee: Opportunities in construction, civil, or mechanical engineering firms.
- Healthcare Assistant: Clinical or administrative roles in hospitals for medical students.
4. Seasonal Jobs
- Ski Resort Staff: Work in Canada’s popular ski destinations during winter.
- Farm Worker: Help with planting or harvesting during summer months.
- Camp Counselor: Engage with kids and young adults during summer camps.
5. Freelance and Online Jobs
- Tutor: Offer academic support to other students or schoolchildren.
- Freelance Writer/Graphic Designer: Work on projects for businesses or individuals.
- Virtual Assistant: Provide administrative services online.
- Social Media Manager: Manage accounts for small businesses.
What are the Potential Challenges of these new updates?
Although it can be tempting to spend longer hours every day, burnout is a genuine possibility. It takes careful preparation to prioritize academics while utilizing this enhanced earning possibility. A valid study permit, enrollment in a recognized educational institution, and, of course, a Social Insurance Number (SIN) are still prerequisites for eligibility.
