Canada is one of the top destinations for international students — and not just for its quality education. The opportunity to gain work experience and earn money while studying is a major draw. But how many hours can you legally work in Canada as an international student in 2025?

Rules have recently changed, and it’s crucial to stay updated. This article breaks down legal work limits, exceptions, recent policy changes, and what it all means for your study-work balance in Canada.

Photo KnowInsiders
How Many Hours In A Week Can You Work Legally In Canada? Photo KnowInsiders

1. General Rule for Working in Canada on a Study Permit

As of 2025, international students with a valid study permit enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) can work under specific conditions:

  • Up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions.

  • Full-time during scheduled breaks (e.g., summer, winter holidays, and spring break).

Important: You do not need a separate work permit to work off-campus if you meet these conditions.

2. Temporary Lifting of 20-Hour Work Limit (2022–2024)

From November 15, 2022, to April 30, 2024, the Canadian government introduced a temporary policy allowing eligible international students to work more than 20 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions. This aimed to address labor shortages in key sectors.

Was it extended in 2025?

No. As of May 1, 2024, the standard 20-hour-per-week limit is reinstated.

Why this matters: Many students took advantage of this temporary rule to earn more and gain extra experience. If you started school during the temporary policy period but continue in 2025, the regular rules now apply to you.

Photo We Global Education
Photo We Global Education

3. On-Campus Work Rules

If you want to work on-campus, the rules are more flexible:

  • You can work any number of hours, as long as you remain enrolled full-time.

  • No separate work permit is needed.

Examples of on-campus jobs:
Library assistant, research assistant, teaching assistant, cafeteria worker, IT support, student ambassador.

4. Co-op and Internships

Some programs include mandatory co-op placements or internships as part of the curriculum. In such cases:

  • You need to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit.

  • The co-op or internship must be an essential part of your academic program.

Note: The co-op work permit is typically valid only for the same duration as your study permit.

5. Post-Graduation Work: PGWP

After graduation, international students may be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to:

  • Work full-time for up to 3 years, depending on the length of their program.

  • Gain valuable Canadian work experience that can count toward permanent residency.

Eligibility highlights:

  • Your program must be at least 8 months long.

  • It must be from a Designated Learning Institution.

  • You must apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks.

6. What Happens If You Work More Than the Allowed Hours?

Violating work limits can have serious consequences:

  • Your study permit could be revoked.

  • Future visa or immigration applications may be affected.

  • You may be barred from re-entering Canada or applying for PR.

Real talk: Always stick to legal limits. Employers may not always verify your eligibility, but the responsibility lies with you.

Photo We Global Education
Photo We Global Education

7. Tips to Stay Compliant and Get Ahead

Here’s how you can work legally and wisely as a student:

Check Your Permit and DLI Status

Make sure your study permit includes a condition that allows you to work off-campus. Also, confirm your school is a recognized DLI.

Track Your Hours

Use apps or spreadsheets to log your weekly hours. Stay within the 20-hour limit during class terms.

Use Breaks Strategically

Plan to work more during scheduled breaks when you can work full-time. This is a great time to save money or gain more experience.

Prioritize Jobs That Build Your Career

Look for part-time roles related to your field of study: lab assistants, tech support, customer service in bilingual roles, tutoring, etc.

Understand Taxes

You’ll need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada. You must also file taxes — even on part-time income. Good record-keeping pays off.

8. What Industries Hire International Students the Most?

Some sectors are especially student-friendly:

  • Retail and customer service

  • Hospitality (cafés, restaurants, hotels)

  • Warehouse and delivery

  • Tutoring and academic support

  • Campus administrative roles

  • Tech and digital freelance (with caution)

Note on Freelancing: Technically, self-employment as a freelancer (e.g., graphic design, programming, tutoring) may not be allowed on a study permit unless you meet specific criteria. Always check with an immigration advisor.

9. How to Find a Job as an International Student in Canada

Start with these resources:

  • Your campus career center

  • Job boards: Indeed.ca, Job Bank, Workopolis

  • LinkedIn: Update your profile with “Open to Work”

  • Networking: Attend workshops, student events, and meetups

  • On-campus bulletin boards and student emails

10. Upcoming Policy Discussions in 2025

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has hinted at potential flexible work hour policies in the future, especially in healthcare and tech sectors. However, as of now:

  • The 20-hour rule is back in effect.

  • Policy reviews are ongoing, but no official announcements have been made beyond May 2024.

Conclusion

Knowing how many hours you can legally work as an international student in Canada is essential for staying in good standing and making the most of your time abroad. In 2025, the clear rule is: up to 20 hours/week during classes, unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, and always on-campus flexibility.

Stick to the rules, find meaningful work, and balance study with smart employment. You’re not just earning money — you’re building a foundation for your future career in Canada or wherever life takes you.

FAQs

Q: Can I work two part-time jobs if the total hours are under 20 per week?

Yes. As long as your combined hours across all jobs don’t exceed 20 per week during academic terms.

Q: Can I start working immediately upon arrival?

You must wait until your classes officially begin and your permit conditions are active.

Q: Can I be self-employed as an international student?

In most cases, no. The study permit allows employee work, not self-employment, unless specific exemptions apply.

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