Canada student work rules 2026: Who can work, how many hours, and what’s allowed for Indian and other foreign students

Canada student work rules for Indian students: According to IRCC, international students can work in Canada without a separate work permit, but only if they meet certain conditions. (Al-generated graphic)

Canada student work rules 2026: Canada continues to attract a large number of international students, including Indians, every year, but over the past year, the government has tightened and clarified the rules around student employment. The changes come as Ottawa looks to ensure that education, not work, remains the primary purpose of a study permit, amid concerns about academic performance and pressure on local job markets.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), international students can work in Canada without a separate work permit, but only if they meet certain conditions.

To be eligible, students must have a valid study permit and be enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI). Their course must lead to a degree, diploma or certificate, run for at least six months, and they must have already begun their academic programme. The study permit must also clearly mention that the student is allowed to work.

Before starting any job, students are required to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

During regular academic sessions, eligible international students can work up to 24 hours per week off campus.

This cap was introduced after Canada ended a temporary pandemic-era measure that had allowed students to work more than the earlier 20-hour limit. The government has said the revised rule aims to strike a balance—helping students cover living expenses while ensuring studies remain the top priority.

However, during scheduled academic breaks such as summer vacations, winter holidays or reading weeks, students are allowed to work unlimited hours, as long as they continue to meet full-time enrolment requirements, according to the IRCC.

India remains Canada’s largest source of international students. With tuition fees and living costs steadily rising, part-time work is often essential to manage expenses. (Al-generated graphic)

International students are allowed to work on campus without any weekly hour limit, provided they hold a valid study permit, are enrolled full-time, and are working at their own institution or at a business located within the campus.

On-campus jobs are generally considered more flexible and better aligned with academic schedules, though such opportunities are limited and often competitive, the IRCC said.

The Canadian government has repeatedly said that while international students play a significant role in the economy, unrestricted work hours are leading some to prioritise jobs over education.

IRCC has underlined that study permits are issued for education, not employment. Authorities have also warned that violations of work conditions can have serious consequences for a student’s legal status and future immigration plans.

These changes are part of a broader overhaul of Canada’s international student programme, which now includes caps on study permits and tougher financial proof requirements.

According to the IRCC, working beyond the permitted limits is treated as a violation of study permit conditions. The IRCC says this can lead to loss of student status, refusal of future visa or work permit applications, and complications when applying for post-study work permits or permanent residence.