Canada values the contribution of international students to its social, cultural, and economic landscape. Recent reforms by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada aim to maintain program integrity while safeguarding students from fraud and financial instability.
The temporary policy allowing students to work over 20 hours off-campus ceased on April 30, 2024, with no extension. Instead, a new policy permitting 24 hours of off-campus work per week will be implemented in the fall. This change intends to prioritize students’ focus on studies while offering work opportunities if needed, aligning with research indicating adverse academic effects beyond 24 hours of work per week.
During academic breaks, students can work unlimited hours. The Recognized Institutions Framework aims to reward institutions maintaining high standards for international student support.
Minister Marc Miller emphasizes the importance of students primarily being in Canada for education, not work, though work experience is valuable. Other countries have similar restrictions on student work hours. Recent policy changes also address financial preparedness and eligibility for post-graduation work permits.
The success of the new Letter of Acceptance (LOA) verification process highlights ongoing efforts to ensure program integrity, with thousands of LOAs verified and discrepancies addressed.
