Canada's 24-Hour Per Week Work Limit for Indian Students Now in Effect

Canada’s Revised Off-Campus Work Rules for International Students Take Effect

The new off-campus work regulations under Canada’s International Student Program have officially come into force, as confirmed by Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship. The changes, proposed earlier this year, now allow eligible international students to work up to 24 hours per week off campus during active classroom sessions.  

In addition to the revised work hours, students planning to switch learning institutions must first apply for and obtain a new study permit. These updates aim to uphold the integrity of the International Student Program, according to Minister Miller.  

Changes to Simplified Application Streams

Canada has discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs, which previously expedited study permit applications. Indian students, who were among the primary beneficiaries of the SDS, will now need to follow the standard application process.  

However, applications submitted under the SDS before the November 8, 2024, 2 PM ET deadline will still benefit from faster processing times. Applications submitted after this deadline will be subject to regular processing timelines, which are generally longer.  

Focus on Program Integrity

In recent months, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented several measures to enhance the International Student Program. These include efforts to combat fraud, protect students from exploitation, and address financial vulnerabilities.  

Under the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aims to gradually reduce its temporary resident population. This strategy aligns with the country’s long-term economic priorities while ensuring the quality and integrity of temporary resident programs.  

Off-Campus Work: Who is Eligible?

International students can work off campus without a work permit if they meet the following criteria:  

1. Enrollment and Institution

• Must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).  
• Enrolled in:  
  • A post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program.  
  • A secondary-level vocational training program (Quebec only).  

2. Program Requirements

• The study program must:  
  • Be at least six months long.  
  • Lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.  

3. Additional Conditions

• Students must have started their studies.  
• A valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required.  
• Eligibility for off-campus work will be stated on the study permit.  

Important Note: Students can only begin off-campus work after their study program has started.  

Who Cannot Work Off-Campus?

Students are not permitted to work off campus if any of the following apply:  

• The study permit explicitly states they are not authorized to work off campus.  
• They are enrolled in:  
  • An English or French as a Second Language (ESL/FSL) program.  
  • General interest courses.  
  • Courses required for admission into a full-time program.  
• Their situation changes, rendering them ineligible for off-campus work.  

Caution: Students working without meeting eligibility criteria risk removal from Canada.