BREAKING: Canada Approves 24 Hours Per Week Working Hours for International Students

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.

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.

References

• Canada
• Canada.en
• DAAD