As a foreign student in Canada, you can work and go to school and it can supplement your pocket, not just that, it will assist you in your path towards success. However, one should be aware of the amount of working hours in a week and what requirements should be satisfied.
There are some changes to the Canada Student Work Hour Rules in 2025 that give students more flexibility than before, but also impose some strict rules. This article will give you all the important information—weekly working hours, eligibility, required documents, and how to start working—all in one place.
Overview: Why are these rules important?
The Canadian government wants students to prioritize studies, but also get work experience and financial support. Not following these rules can jeopardize your study permit and even force you to leave the country.
Apart from this, following these rules properly also paves the way for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Permanent Residence (PR).
Key Points of Canada Student Work Hour Rules 2025
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Weekly Work Limit (Term) | Up to 24 hours/week (off-campus) |
| Full-Time Work Eligibility | Allowed during scheduled academic breaks |
| Eligibility Requirements | Full-time enrollment at a DLI, 6+ month program |
| Study Permit Note | Permit must mention off-campus work eligibility |
| SIN Requirement | Valid SIN is mandatory before starting work |
| Official Information | Visit Canada.ca for updates |
Eligibility Criteria
These conditions must be met before starting work:
- Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
You must study full-time at a recognized DLI in Canada. The course must be at least 6 months long and lead to a degree, diploma or certificate.
- Valid Study Permit
Your study permit must clearly state that you can work off-campus. Failure to mention this will prompt you to contact IRCC so that it may update your permit.
- SIN ( Social Insurance Number )
Without a SIN, you cannot start work. Once your permit allows work, apply for a SIN from Service Canada.
Working hours and rules
During studies (Academic Sessions)
| Semester Type | Maximum Work Hours |
|---|---|
| Regular Semester | 24 hours/week |
There is no such thing as working longer hours regardless of the number of jobs you are doing.
Example: You have 12 hours in coffee shop and 10 hours tutoring so there is only 2 hours left in this week.
During holidays (Scheduled Breaks)
| Break Type | Work Limit |
|---|---|
| Summer/Winter Break | Full-Time Work |
If you were a full-time student during the summer or winter break and are going to continue studying again after the break, you can work full-time (40+ hours/week) during the holidays.
Example: During the summer break from May to August, you can work up to 8-10 hours per day.
Rules in final semester
If you are in your final semester and studying part-time, you can still work off-campus—provided you studied full-time in all previous semesters.
On-campus jobs
There is no hour limit for on-campus jobs. These jobs are flexible and easy for students to juggle with their studies.
How to start working?
Follow the steps below to start working:
- Check the study permitSee if it says May accept employment on or off campus.” If this line is not there, immediately apply for a correction from IRCC.
- Apply for a SIN Go to Service Canada with your study permit and other required documents and get a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Find the right job
Look for jobs that suit your skills and schedule. Such as:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants
- Tutoring
- College campus jobs
- Use college services Most colleges have facilities like job portals, resume workshops, and interview training. Take full advantage of them.
- Track your hours Write down the amount of hours you are working in a week. This may help you avoid breaking the rules and doing so unintentionally.
Conclusion
If you are an international student in Canada and are thinking of working while studying, then it is very important for you to understand and follow the Canada Student Work Hour Rules 2025. This not only helps you financially, but this experience also proves beneficial in your career and immigration future.
FAQs
1. How many hours can international students work off-campus per week in 2025?
International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular academic sessions.
2. Can students work full-time during academic breaks in 2025?
Yes, students can work full-time during scheduled breaks such as winter or summer holidays, provided they were full-time students before the break and plan to return afterward.
3. Are there any restrictions on on-campus jobs?
No, there are no hour limits for on-campus employment. Students can work as many hours as they wish on campus.
4. Do I need a special permit to work off-campus?
Yes, your study permit must state that you are eligible to work off-campus. If it doesn’t, you need to contact IRCC to amend it.
5. What is a SIN, and is it required?
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required before starting any job in Canada. You can apply for one after your study permit confirms work eligibility.
