Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Canada’s immigration department has issued a fresh warning to international students, reminding them that they can work in the country only when their study permits explicitly authorise employment. Students who breach the conditions, including by working beyond the permitted hours, could face serious immigration consequences.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shared the reminder in a post on X, outlining the rules students must follow while working during their studies.
The department said eligible international students can work off campus for a maximum of 24 hours per week while classes are in session. However, permission to work is not automatic for everyone holding a study permit. Students must check whether their permit specifically allows on-campus or off-campus employment.
Canada’s 24-hour work limit for international students
IRCC has advised students to read the employment conditions mentioned on their study permits before accepting a job. Those whose permits allow off-campus work can work up to 24 hours a week during regular academic sessions.
Working beyond the permitted limit amounts to a breach of study permit conditions. Students must also ensure that their permits authorise the particular type of employment they intend to undertake.
The rules are particularly important for students balancing part-time jobs with their studies, as exceeding the authorised hours can affect their immigration status.
What happens if students violate work conditions?
According to IRCC’s guidance on unauthorised work, students who work more hours than permitted can lose their student status. A violation may also affect their eligibility for future study permits or work permits.
In certain cases, students may be required to leave Canada. The department’s wider guidance on unauthorised employment also warns that people working without permission could face removal from the country, a record of immigration fraud and a five-year ban on returning.
Such violations can have consequences for future immigration applications, including applications for permanent residence.
Can international students work after graduation?
International students who wish to continue working in Canada after completing their studies generally need a work permit. Some graduates may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
IRCC allows certain graduates to work full-time while their PGWP application is being processed, provided they meet specific conditions. These include having held a valid study permit when they applied, having completed their programme and having been authorised to work off campus during their studies without exceeding the permitted hours.
Applicants who do not meet these requirements must wait until they receive their work permit before starting a new job.
IRCC warns students about job and immigration scams
The department has also highlighted potential warning signs of immigration-related fraud while looking for work.
Students should be cautious of people who demand money in exchange for a job offer or a work permit, request personal documents or payments through social media, or promise free accommodation in return for labour.
IRCC also reminds workers that those employed legally in Canada are protected by the country’s labour laws. They can approach the relevant provincial or territorial labour standards authorities if they face workplace-related problems, without needing their employer’s permission.
