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How Many Hours Can a International Student Work in Canada: Comprehensive Guide


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Last Updated On : March 21 , 2025


Studying in Canada presents numerous opportunities, including gaining valuable work experience alongside academic pursuits. Understanding the regulations around working hours is essential for international students. This guide provides a detailed overview of how many hours students are allowed to work in Canada, ensuring clarity and compliance with Canadian immigration and labor laws.

Work Hour Limitations for International Students

working-hours-for-international-students

International students in Canada are permitted to work, but specific restrictions apply based on their academic status and timing within their study programs.

Work Hours During Regular Academic Sessions

  • Maximum Hours Allowed: 20 hours per week
  • Eligibility: Students must be enrolled full-time in a designated learning institution (DLI).
  • Conditions: Valid study permit specifying allowance to work off-campus.

Work Hours During Scheduled Academic Breaks

  • Maximum Hours Allowed: Full-time (no hourly limit)
  • Eligibility: Students must remain enrolled full-time before and after the break.
  • Typical Breaks: Summer holidays, winter breaks, or reading weeks.

Special Conditions and Exceptions

  • On-Campus Employment: Students working on-campus do not have hourly restrictions but must maintain full-time student status.
  • Co-op and Internship Programs: These programs allow students to work full-time as part of their academic curriculum, subject to approval and conditions stated on their study permit.

Summary Table of Work Hours Allowed

Scenario Hours Allowed Per Week Conditions
Regular Academic Sessions Up to 20 hours Full-time student, valid permit
Scheduled Academic Breaks No hourly limit (Full-time) Full-time enrollment before and after breaks
On-Campus Employment No hourly limit Must maintain full-time enrollment status
Co-op/Internship Programs Full-time hours Part of the academic program

Benefits of Working While Studying

  • Financial independence and support for living expenses.
  • Gain valuable Canadian work experience.
  • Enhance employability post-graduation.
  • Networking opportunities within Canadian job markets.

Important Statistics (2023)

Aspect Statistic Details
International Students in Canada Approximately 622,000
Students Working Part-Time Over 65% of international students
Common Work Sectors Retail, hospitality, customer service

(Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – IRCC, 2023)

Conclusion

International students in Canada have clear guidelines regarding permissible working hours, providing opportunities for financial support and professional growth. Adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance and enriches your overall educational experience in Canada, setting the stage for future career success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Students can begin working once their academic program starts, provided they meet eligibility criteria.
No additional work permit is required if your study permit explicitly allows off-campus employment.
Regularly exceeding the 20-hour limit is against regulations and may result in penalties or loss of student status
Graduate students can work up to 20 hours per week during sessions and full-time during scheduled academic breaks.
Yes, you may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) upon completing your study program.

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