Canada Introduces New Work Limits and Study Permit Rules for Students

Canada, a popular destination for international students, has recently implemented new regulations aimed at strengthening the integrity of its International Student Program. The changes, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), are designed to balance student opportunities with program oversight.

Efforts to Combat Fraud and Abuse

Over the past year, IRCC has taken steps to curb fraud within the International Student Program. The goal is to shield students from unethical practices and reduce their financial risks.

As part of Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, there will be a gradual decrease in temporary residents to meet long-term economic objectives and enhance the quality of temporary resident programs.

Key Changes Announced

Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has confirmed the implementation of new regulations affecting international students. These changes include a limit on the number of hours students can work off campus.

1. Off-Campus Work Hours Curbed

One of the significant changes is the limitation on off-campus work hours for international students. Eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while classes are in session. This adjustment aims to ensure students prioritize their academic commitments.

2. New Rules for Study Permit Holders

International students must now apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before transferring to a different learning institution. This requirement reinforces the importance of adhering to program regulations.

3. Increased Compliance Measures

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) must now take a stronger role in upholding the student visa system. Since 2015, IRCC has worked with DLIs to enforce stricter compliance reporting.

4. Consequences for Non-Compliance

Failure to submit required reports or verify acceptance letters may result in suspension, barring DLIs from admitting new students for up to a year. This aims to protect international students’ experiences.

Minister’s Statement on the New Changes

Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship emphasized the importance of these regulations:

“By setting a 24-hour weekly limit on off-campus work, we are balancing employment opportunities with students’ academic priorities. We also count on educational institutions to support these efforts to protect the program’s integrity. These changes are meant to ensure international students have a positive and enriching experience in Canada.”

Important Details for International Students

Eligibility for Off-Campus Work

• To work off campus without a separate work permit, students must be enrolled full-time in a post-secondary academic or vocational program lasting at least six months and leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Students can work full-time during official academic breaks, such as summer or winter vacations.

DLIs’ Compliance Reporting

• Twice a year, DLIs are required to report to IRCC whether students are still enrolled and in good standing. Non-compliance can lead to investigations and enforcement actions.
• Quebec DLIs currently have an extended timeline to comply with the new reporting requirements as they work with IRCC to establish an effective system.

Success of Letter of Acceptance (LOA) Verification

The new letter of acceptance (LOA) verification process has been a success. Since its launch on December 1, 2023, through October 6, 2024, IRCC has

• received almost 529,000 LOAs for verification
• confirmed nearly 492,000 LOAs as valid directly with designated learning institutions (DLIs)
• identified more than 17,000 LOAs that either didn’t match any LOA issued by a DLI or that the DLI had already cancelled before the individual applied for a study permit

Final Words

These changes aim to create a secure and high-quality academic environment for international students in Canada while maintaining the integrity of the program. By implementing these measures, Canada aims to maintain its reputation as a top study destination while protecting the integrity of its immigration system.