On November 15, 2024, The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Marc Miller, recently announced that a series of new regulations for international students came into effect on November 15. These changes include extending the number of off-campus work hours for students during their academic terms and modifying the process for transferring between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).
Off-Campus Work Hours Increased to 24 Hours Per Week
Under the new regulations, eligible international students can now work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week during the academic term, up from the previous limit of 20 hours. Miller stated that this adjustment strikes a balance between offering students more work opportunities and ensuring their academic success.
It is important to note that this cap applies only to off-campus work during class sessions. International students can continue to work on-campus or full-time off-campus during breaks between academic terms without restriction.
New Requirement for Transferring Schools
The updated rules also require international students to apply for and obtain a new study permit before transferring to a new Designated Learning Institution. Previously, students could change schools without applying for a new permit as long as they updated their IRCC online account. This change aims to strengthen oversight of the International Student Program, ensuring compliance for both students and institutions.
Enhanced Oversight of Designated Learning Institutions
IRCC emphasized the critical role of DLIs in safeguarding the integrity of the International Student Program. Since 2015, IRCC has collaborated with these institutions to enhance student compliance reporting mechanisms. According to the new rules, DLIs that fail to submit compliance reports or verify acceptance letters may face penalties, including a suspension of up to one year from enrolling new international students.
Miller commented, “We expect institutions to support our efforts in maintaining the integrity of the International Student Program. International students deserve a positive and successful experience in Canada, and these significant changes will help achieve that goal.”
Compliance Requirements and Quebec’s Unique Situation
Under the new compliance requirements, DLIs must submit two reports annually to IRCC confirming whether each study permit holder remains enrolled. Students who are no longer enrolled may be subject to investigation and enforcement actions for violating study permit conditions.
Notably, DLIs in Quebec are not yet required to participate in student compliance reporting. IRCC and the Quebec government are working together to establish this reporting system, and Quebec institutions will have a grace period before the requirements take effect.
Eligibility for Off-Campus Work
To work off-campus without a work permit, international students must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled full-time in a recognized post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program, or in a vocational training program at the secondary level in Quebec;
- Be enrolled in a program lasting at least six months that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Eligible students may also work full-time during academic breaks, such as summer or winter vacations, without restrictions on hours.
