New International Student Regulations in Canada: What You Need to Know

INTRODUCTION

Canada continues to adapt its policies to support international students and their aspirations. On November 15, 2024, new regulations were implemented for international students. These changes bring opportunities and responsibilities, ensuring a smoother study and work experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the updates and what they mean for you:

Key Changes in Regulations

1. Work Hour Increase to 24 Hours Per Week
   Eligible international students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while their classes are in session. This is an increase from the previous cap, offering students greater financial flexibility.
   • Who qualifies?
     Only students meeting the eligibility criteria specified in their study permits.
   • Benefits:
     Students can now support themselves better financially, gain practical work experience, and integrate into Canadian society more effectively.
2. Changing Learning Institutions
   If international students wish to transfer to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI), they must now:
   • Apply for approval.
   • Obtain a new study permit.

This ensures smoother transitions and compliance with Canada’s immigration policies.

Why These Changes Matter

Canada remains one of the top destinations for international students, with over 800,000 enrolled annually. These updates reflect efforts to make Canada more student-friendly while ensuring its policies support students’ education and work opportunities responsibly.

How to Benefit from the Updates

• Maximize Work Opportunities:
  Plan your schedule effectively to take advantage of the additional 4 hours per week. Explore jobs in your field of study to gain relevant experience while earning.
• Ensure Compliance:
  When transferring institutions, make sure to follow the outlined process to avoid complications in your study permit status.

A Student’s Perspective

Here’s how these changes could impact an average international student:

Example:
Ravi, a student pursuing business studies in Toronto, works part-time at a marketing firm. With the increased work hour limit, Ravi can now take on more projects and earn additional income without compromising his studies.

On the other hand, if Ravi decides to transfer to another institution for better course options, he knows he must first apply for a new study permit.

Tips for Navigating the Changes

• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) platforms.
• Seek Guidance: Contact your current institution’s international student advisor for assistance when changing DLIs.
• Monitor Work Hours: Keep track of your work hours to remain compliant with the rules.

Blue Horse Education’s Take

At Blue Horse Education, we believe these updates empower students to achieve their dreams in Canada while maintaining their academic focus. The increase in work hours is a step towards balancing education and financial independence.

For more insights on study visa policies and immigration updates, visit Blue Horse Education.

By embracing these changes, international students can thrive academically and professionally in Canada. For further details, explore the official announcement by the IRCC here.

This blog is optimized to provide clarity while aligning with the needs of international students. Stay tuned to Blue Horse Education for more updates!