The new 24-hour work limit for international students could prove challenging in multiple ways—impacting student finances, job opportunities, and the broader job market. While the intention behind the regulation is to support academic pursuits, it raises pressing questions about how students will manage their educational costs while pursuing their degrees in Canada.
As international students continue to play a crucial role in Canada’s economy and academic environment, the coming months will reveal whether this policy change ultimately serves their well-being or creates further obstacles in their path to success.
Ready to escape your toxic job? Get weekly tips for surviving and take the first step towards a healthier career with Two Minutes' Notice.
As of recently, Canada has implemented a significant change affecting the professional landscape for international students. New regulations stipulate that international students are now limited to working just 24 hours a week, a decision that has already sparked considerable debate among students, educators, and employers.
The change comes after research indicated that many international students were working excessively long hours, potentially impacting their academic performance. According to Canadian Bureau for International Education, the number of international students in Canada reached over 622,000 in 2022, a number that has consistently risen as Canada becomes an increasingly attractive destination for education.
Previously, international students could work unlimited hours during academic breaks and part-time during the semester. Yoko Takamatsu, an international student from Japan, expressed concern, stating, "Many of us depend on these jobs to support our education and living expenses. A reduction in work hours means we may have to struggle more financially."
The policy aims to provide a balanced student life by ensuring that students do not undermine their studies with extensive work commitments. Statistics Canada revealed that international students often juggle multiple responsibilities, with many working in part-time roles in hospitality, retail, and other low-wage industries.
Financially, the 24-hour work limit raises concerns among students who rely heavily on income from their jobs to make ends meet. The median tuition fee for international students in Canada is approximately CAD 29,000 per year, significantly higher than that for domestic students, which averages around CAD 6,500. This additional financial burden is forcing many to reconsider their educational choices.
Moreover, many students argue that the new regulation fails to account for seasonal employment spikes, particularly during holidays or summer breaks, when many are seeking lucrative, full-time positions to help offset their educational expenses. The Canadian Federation of Students, which represents over 500,000 students, has criticized the limit, arguing it disincentivizes international students from pursuing studies in Canada.
While the government has indicated that it is keen to protect students’ academic integrity, some international students feel the regulations may hinder their ability to thrive financially. Farid Syed, a graduate student from India, mentioned, "I have friends who work in tech positions that pay well. If we often miss out on these opportunities, it could set us back in our careers."
The job market in Canada continues to face challenges, with many companies experiencing talent shortages in various sectors, especially technology and healthcare. Data from the Bank of Canada indicates a tight labor market due to an aging population and a lack of available workers. As a result, employers have relied heavily on international students to fill critical roles in their organizations.
Employers are now concerned about how these restrictions will affect their ability to recruit skilled talent. "International students have been vital in meeting our staffing needs. With this limit on work hours, we could see productivity take a hit," noted Maxine Chen, an HR director at a local tech startup.
To tackle this issue, some Canadian businesses are starting to adapt their recruitment strategies to accommodate the new regulations. Companies may turn to more flexible work arrangements or adjust their expectations for part-time roles. Universities are also stepping up efforts to connect students with internships that can provide experience while balancing work hours more effectively.
