Canada’s government has recently introduced new regulations limiting off-campus work for international students to a maximum of 24 hours per week. This significant change is expected to have a substantial impact on the financial situation of international students, especially those from India, who constitute the largest student population in Canada.
The new rule, which went into effect this week, marks a reversal of a temporary relaxation of work hour restrictions implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, international students were allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week off-campus. However, to provide additional support during the pandemic, the government temporarily lifted this restriction.
The decision to reinstate the 24-hour work cap has sparked concerns among international students and advocates. Many students rely on part-time work to supplement their tuition fees and living expenses, particularly those from countries with lower incomes. The reduced work hours are likely to increase financial strain on these students, potentially forcing them to cut back on essential expenses or seek additional part-time jobs.
The impact of the new regulations is expected to be particularly significant for Indian students, who make up a considerable portion of Canada’s international student population. According to recent data, there are approximately 860,000 international students enrolled in Canadian universities and colleges. Of this number, Indian students comprise the largest group, with over 260,000 individuals.
“With the new work hour restrictions, it’s going to be extremely difficult to make ends meet. I’m already struggling to cover my rent, tuition fees, and basic living expenses. I don’t know how I’ll manage with less money coming in,” said Anika, an Indian student studying computer science at the University of Toronto.
“This is a huge setback for international students like me. Part-time work is essential for us to support our studies and gain valuable experience. The reduced work hours will make it much harder to afford the high cost of living in Canada,” added Ravi, an Indian student pursuing a degree in engineering at McGill University.
“The new regulations are discouraging for future international students from India. If Canada is going to make it harder for us to work and support ourselves, why would we choose to study here? Other countries offer more favorable conditions for international students,” said Priya, a prospective Indian student considering studying in Canada.
The international student population contributes significantly to Canada’s economy. In 2022, international students contributed an estimated CAD 22.5 billion to the Canadian economy. This revenue is generated through tuition fees, living expenses, and other economic activities.
While the government may have implemented the new work hour restrictions with the intention of ensuring that international students focus on their studies, the policy change could have unintended consequences. Some students may be forced to cut back on their academic pursuits in order to meet their financial obligations, potentially leading to a decline in academic performance.
Furthermore, the new regulations could deter prospective international students from choosing Canada as their study destination. The ability to work part-time is an important factor for many students when deciding where to pursue their education. If Canada is perceived as having restrictive work policies, it may become less attractive to international students.
In conclusion, the Canadian government’s decision to reinstate the 24-hour work cap for international students is likely to have a significant impact on the financial well-being of many students, particularly those from India. While the government may have intended to prioritize academic focus, the policy change could have unintended consequences for both students and the Canadian economy. It is essential for policymakers to carefully consider the potential implications of such regulations and to explore alternative strategies that support international students while maintaining academic integrity.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance
