Canada is a top destination for international students thanks to its world-class education, multicultural environment, and abundant work opportunities. But a question that comes up often is: Can international students legally work more than 40 hours a week in Canada?

The answer depends on several factors, including your study permit conditions, whether you’re on break or in session, and the most current immigration policies. We will break down what the rules are in 2025 and maybe beyond, who they apply to, and how international students can maximize their legal work options while studying in Canada in this blog post.

Current Work Limits for International Students

International students in Canada are allowed to work with these limitations;

Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions (part-time)

Full-time during scheduled school breaks (summer, winter, and spring breaks)

However, these rules have evolved recently due to temporary policy changes.

Temporary Exemption (2022–2023 Work Hour Flexibility)

In response to labor shortages, the Canadian government implemented a temporary policy from November 15, 2022, to December 31, 2023, allowing eligible international students to work unlimited hours off-campus during the academic session.

To qualify for this work hour flexibility, students needed to have;

A valid study permit or had applied before October 7, 2022

Enrollment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

N/B; This policy expired in 2023. As of 2025, the standard 20-hour weekly limit is back in effect, unless future updates are introduced by IRCC.

When You Can Legally Work More Than 40 Hours

Even though the temporary policy has ended, there are still legal ways international students can work more than 40 hours per week:

Scheduled Breaks: During school breaks, students can work full-time without a weekly limit.

Co-op and Internship Programs: Students enrolled in co-op programs can work full-time during the placement period if they have a co-op work permit.

Post-Graduation Period: If you’ve completed your studies and applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you’re allowed to work full-time while waiting for a decision, provided you meet certain conditions.

Risks of Working Beyond Your Limit

Working more than 20 hours a week during the academic session without authorization is a violation of your study permit. This could lead to;

Loss of student status

Ineligibility for PGWP

Deportation or a ban from returning to Canada

Therefore, you should always stay within the legal limits unless a policy exemption is in place.

Clarifying Common Misconceptions

Below are some frequent myths or misconceptions and their facts about work limits for international students;

Myth: You can work full-time if your course load is light.

Fact: You must still adhere to the 20-hour limit unless you’re on a scheduled break.

Myth: Freelancing and online gigs don’t count.

Fact: Any activity where you earn money counts as work and must follow immigration guidelines.

Myth: Small violations (like 25 hours/week) aren’t detected.

Fact: Employers issue tax forms (T4), and violations can be discovered during immigration applications.

Types of Work that is Allowed

The work that counts under your study permit includes;

Part-time jobs in retail, food service, or offices

Freelance or gig work like tutoring or delivery (as long as it’s reported)

Internships or volunteer positions that a Canadian would be paid for

On-Campus vs Off-Campus Work

On-campus work does not count towards the 20-hour limit and is often easier to find for international students. Examples include working at the library, university bookstore, or cafeteria.

Off-campus work (like a job at a local restaurant or retail store) is subject to the 20-hour limit during school sessions.

Real Student Experiences

Ada from Nigeria: Ada works 20 hours/week during her academic term and 50 hours/week during her summer break legally. She’s saving up to support her family back home.

Lucas from Brazil: Lucas unknowingly worked 25 hours/week and didn’t realize this could affect his PGWP eligibility. Now, he’s seeking legal help to explain his case.

Ayesha from India: Ayesha is in a co-op program and works 45 hours/week during her internship semester with a valid co-op work permit.

How to Find Legal Part-Time Jobs

You can find work through;

Indeed Canada

Job Bank Canada

Glassdoor Canada

Your school’s career center

Smart Budgeting Tips for Students

Since you can only work 20 hours per week during your studies, you’ll need to manage your money carefully. Average monthly expenses may include;

Rent: $600–$1,200

Food: $250–400

Transport: $80–150

Phone and Internet: $50–100

Miscellaneous: $100–200

You should plan to work full-time during breaks to save extra money for the school term.

Post-Graduation Work Opportunities

Once you graduate, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work full-time for up to 3 years.

To qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must:

Graduate from a DLI

Complete a program that’s at least 8 months long

Apply within 180 days of getting your transcript

A PGWP also opens the door to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Policy Changes to Watch in 2025

Immigration policies are always evolving. Some changes you might see in the near future include;

Extended work hour exemptions for certain job sectors

Broader access to co-op and paid internships

Possibly permanent changes to off-campus work limits

You should stay updated by checking the IRCC news page and talking to your school’s international student advisor.

Conclusion

Working while studying in Canada is a great way to gain experience and support yourself financially. However, it’s crucial to follow the rules and understand your rights and responsibilities as an international student.

Make sure you’re aware of the latest IRCC updates, avoid immigration violations, and take advantage of full-time work opportunities during your scheduled breaks. With good planning and the right strategy, you can make your student journey in Canada successful and rewarding.

Helpful Resources

IRCC: Working as a Student

How to Get a SIN

CRA Student Tax Info

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