Ottawa Considers Increasing Off-Campus Work Hours for International Students

September 24, 2024
6:24 am

Share Now

Ottawa is considering a proposal that could significantly impact the lives of international students in Canada. This proposal, currently under review by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aims to increase the limit on off-campus work hours for international students. Previously capped at 20 hours per week, this change could offer new opportunities and financial relief for students.

Background on Current Regulations

International students have long been limited to working 20 hours per week off-campus during the academic term. This rule, designed to ensure that students focus primarily on their studies, has been a point of contention. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the limit was temporarily raised to 24 hours per week to help students cope with financial difficulties. However, it was reduced back to 20 hours as the situation normalized.

Why the Change is Needed

Many international students face significant financial challenges. The cost of living, tuition fees, and other expenses often exceed their available resources. As a result, there’s a strong push for more flexible work regulations. An IRCC survey revealed that more than half of the international students would work more than 20 hours per week if allowed. This change could benefit nearly 297,000 students, allowing them to work additional hours and earn more income to support their studies and living expenses.

Benefits of Increased Work Hours

Financial Relief

Allowing international students to work more than 20 hours per week could provide substantial financial relief. At an average hourly wage of $24.29, students could potentially earn an additional $10.2 billion over ten years. This extra income could help them cover tuition fees, rent, and other living expenses, reducing their reliance on loans and financial aid.

Addressing Labour Shortages

Canada is currently experiencing labour shortages in several low-wage industries, such as hospitality and food services. Allowing international students to work more hours can help fill these gaps. According to the Canadian Employer Employee Dynamics Database (CEEDD), around 23.9% of international students work in these sectors. By increasing their work hours, these students can contribute more significantly to the Canadian economy while gaining valuable work experience.

Potential Concerns

Balancing Work and Studies

One of the primary concerns is ensuring that students do not compromise their academic performance by working too many hours. The IRCC emphasizes the need to balance students’ work opportunities with their educational responsibilities. It’s crucial to ensure that the primary purpose of a study permit, which is to pursue education, is not undermined by excessive work commitments.

Impact on Canadian Workers

Some fear that increasing work hours for international students could lead to increased competition for jobs, particularly in low-wage sectors. However, given the high job vacancy rates in these industries, the additional workforce provided by international students is likely to be beneficial rather than detrimental.

Regulatory Changes Under Review

To implement these changes, several regulatory adjustments are being considered. These include:

Enhanced Compliance Measures: Institutions would be required to report on the enrollment status of international students more frequently and accurately. This includes confirming acceptance, submitting compliance reports, and correcting any discrepancies within specified time frames.

Increased Oversight of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs): The IRCC seeks greater authority to suspend study permit processing for non-compliant institutions. This ensures that only legitimate institutions enroll international students, reducing the risk of fraud.

Student Notifications: International students may be required to notify the IRCC when changing institutions, helping maintain accurate records and compliance with study permit conditions.

The proposal to increase off-campus work hours for international students in Canada is a welcome development that addresses both the financial needs of students and the labour market demands of the country. By carefully balancing work opportunities with academic responsibilities, this change can provide significant benefits without compromising the quality of education.

For international students, this potential change represents a chance to gain more financial independence and better integrate into the Canadian workforce. As Ottawa continues to review and refine these regulations, it is clear that the well-being and success of international students remain a priority. At ImmigCanada, we are committed to keeping you informed about these developments and assisting you in making the most of your educational and professional journey in Canada.