What International Students & Schools Must Know Now
Canada has introduced new, stricter study permit rules effective June 18, 2026, as part of its ongoing effort to stabilize the international student program and ensure compliance across institutions. These changes affect study permit issuance, eligibility, and work authorization, including the new 24‑hour weekly limit for off‑campus work during academic terms.
This blog breaks down everything students, employers, and Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) need to know.
1. Off‑Campus Work Is Now Capped at 24 Hours Per Week
IRCC has officially confirmed that eligible international students may now work up to 24 hours per week off‑campus during regular academic sessions.
Key Rules
Maximum 24 hours/week during academic terms.
Unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (summer, winter, reading week).
Students cannot work before their program begins.
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required, and the study permit must include one of the following conditions:
“May work 24 hours per week off campus…”
“May accept employment on or off campus…”
Who Is Eligible to Work Off‑Campus?
Students must:
Be enrolled full‑time at a DLI (or part‑time only in their final semester).
Be in a program 6 months or longer leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Have a valid study permit with work conditions.
If these conditions are not met, students cannot work off‑campus and may need to request a permit amendment.
2. Clarification on Scheduled Breaks
IRCC has tightened definitions around what counts as a scheduled break:
Must be at least 7 consecutive days.
Statutory holidays do not count as breaks on their own.
Students may work unlimited hours for up to 180 days per calendar year across all scheduled breaks.
3. Reinforced Compliance Requirements for Study Permit Holders
While the June 18, 2026 update focuses heavily on work rules, IRCC has also reinforced compliance expectations:
Students must:
Maintain full‑time enrollment (except final semester).
Avoid unauthorized work — violations can impact future immigration applications.
Update IRCC when changing schools or taking an authorized leave.
Students cannot work during an authorized leave.
DLIs must:
Ensure students meet program requirements.
Provide accurate letters confirming mandatory work components (for co‑op/internships).
Report enrollment status to IRCC.
4. What This Means for Employers
Employers hiring international students must verify:
The student’s study permit includes the correct work conditions.
The student is enrolled full‑time (unless in final semester).
Hours do not exceed 24 per week during academic terms.
Unauthorized work can result in consequences for both the student and employer.
5. Why Canada Tightened These Rules
IRCC’s June 2026 measures aim to:
Reduce misuse of the international student program.
Ensure students prioritize academics.
Align work rules with labour market realities.
Strengthen program integrity across DLIs.
