Starting from November 15, 2022 to December 31, 2023, international students who are in Canada with a study permit that can allow them to work off-campus, will be allowed to work off-campus more than 20 hours per week while class is in session. Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, has announced the news on October 7, 2022. This temporary measure is aimed to alleviate the current labour shortage situation in Canada.
As of now, international students on study permit who are studying in an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution may be authorized to work off-campus for the duration of their studies for up to 20 hours per week. This 20 hour limit is lifted during semester breaks or summer/winter breaks. The current policy allows international students to financially support themselves while simultaneously ensures students remain focus on completing their studies.
Minister Fraser noted that this measure will allow over 500,000 eligible international students already in Canada to work more hours.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also mandates Minister Fraser to explore additional pathways for temporary residents, international students, and temporary foreign workers to gain permanent residency via Express Entry. More news to come on the Canadian government’s newcomer strategy when the new Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025 is tabled by November 1 of this year.
