Do you want to know about Canada’s new 24-hour student work limit?
Yes — starting September 2024, eligible international students will be able to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during school terms.
I remember when I first came to Canada to study — I was constantly calculating my hours to make sure I didn’t pass the old 20-hour limit. There was one week I came dangerously close, and I had sleepless nights worrying that IRCC might find out and cancel my permit.
But now, with this new 24-hour rule, there’s a little more breathing room — although the rules are still strict, and breaking them can have serious consequences.
Let me explain everything you need to know about the 24-hour student work limit, how IRCC checks hours, and what you can and cannot do under your study permit.
What happens if you work more than 24 hours in Canada as a student?
If you exceed the 24-hour weekly limit during academic sessions, you’re violating your study permit conditions. This could lead to:
Losing your student status
Being refused for future study or work permits
Even being asked to leave Canada
The rule applies to all jobs combined — whether it’s one employer, multiple part-time jobs, or gig work like delivery apps.
How does IRCC know how many hours you worked?
IRCC can verify your work hours through:
CRA tax records and T4 slips
Employer schedules and payroll records
Records from gig apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash
Information you submit during PR or permit applications
If your numbers don’t add up, IRCC may investigate — even years later.
What if I accidentally work more than 20 hours?
Before September 2024, the limit was 20 hours. If you went over before, it’s still considered a violation. For the future, the new 24-hour limit applies, but the same rule stands — don’t go over even by 1 hour.
Can students work 24 hours from September?
Yes — from September 2024, you can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while studying, and unlimited hours during official school breaks.
Can an international student do Uber Eats more than 20 hours in Canada?
You can now do Uber Eats or similar delivery jobs for up to 24 hours per week while in classes. Going beyond that is against the rules.
Can I work unlimited hours on campus?
Yes — on-campus work has no set limit from IRCC, but it must not interfere with your studies.
How does IRCC calculate hours worked?
IRCC counts hours from Sunday to Saturday each week and includes all jobs together. Working 25 hours in any week is considered breaking the rules.
Is PSW eligible for PR in Canada?
Yes, work experience from a Post-Graduation Work Permit can help you qualify for PR through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, or other immigration streams.
Which courses are not eligible for PGWP?
Programs under 8 months
Programs from non-DLI schools
ESL/FSL-only courses
General interest or preparatory programs
How to get PR in Canada as a student?
Most students choose:
Canadian Experience Class (after 1 year of skilled work)
Provincial Nominee Programs
Atlantic Immigration Program
Quebec Experience Program
Conclusion
Now that you understand Canada’s new 24-hour student work limit, remember: the limit gives you more flexibility than before, but it’s still strict.
The main points to remember are:
You can work 24 hours per week off-campus during school
All jobs count toward the total
On-campus work has no IRCC limit
Violating your permit conditions can hurt your future in Canada