Along with the new living cost requirement, IRCC is extending the waiver on the 20-hour work limit per week for international students until April 30, 2024. This extension applies to students already in Canada and those who have applied for a study permit by December 7, 2023.
Initially introduced on November 15, 2022, and originally set to expire on December 31, 2023, this policy allows students to work beyond the standard 20 hours per week while classes are in session.
Eligibility to work while studying in Canada includes:
Possessing a valid study permit.
Being a full-time student at a designated learning institution.
Maintaining satisfactory academic standing as determined by the institution.
Enrolling in a program of at least six months leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Having a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Additionally, Minister Miller announced two updates related to the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) during today's press conference.
Firstly, the policy allowing international students to count online study periods towards their PGWP eligibility will be extended until September 1, 2024, provided this online study does not exceed half of their total program duration.
Secondly, there will be no further special extensions for PGWPs. The government of Canada has previously implemented a temporary policy to extend PGWPs for 18 months on three occasions. Those eligible for the latest extension policy (with permits expiring up to December 31, 2023) can still apply, but no further extensions will be offered beyond this period.
