Understanding how many hours an international student can work in Canada is one of the most important questions for students planning to study and build a future in the country. In 2026, Canadian immigration rules remain strict, data-driven, and closely monitored by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Knowing the limits is essential to stay compliant and protect future immigration options.
Legal work limits for international students in 2026
According to IRCC, students with a valid study permit may work off campus up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions. International students can combine hours from multiple jobs, as long as all employment complies with the terms of their study permit.
During scheduled academic breaks such as summer holidays or winter breaks, eligible students may work full time, provided they remain enrolled and in good academic standing.
IMPORTANT: The temporary 40-hour policy introduced during labour shortages officially ended in 2024 and does not apply in 2026.
On-campus vs off-campus employment
The distinction between work types directly affects how many hours an international student can work in Canada, as on-campus and off-campus employment are governed by different IRCC rules and eligibility conditions that determine weekly work limits and compliance requirements.
- On-campus work. On-campus employment allows international students to work without a fixed hourly limit during academic sessions, as long as the work takes place on the institution’s premises. The employer must be the educational institution itself or an authorized on-campus business, such as a bookstore or food service provider. In all cases, the study permit must explicitly authorize the student to work in Canada.
- Off-campus work. Off-campus employment is subject to stricter regulations. International students may work a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session. Full-time work is only permitted during officially scheduled academic breaks, such as summer or winter holidays. To qualify, students must meet all IRCC eligibility criteria, including full-time enrollment and valid study permit conditions.
Most compliance issues arise from misunderstanding off-campus rules.
IRCC working hours and compliance risks
IRCC working hours are digitally tracked through payroll records, SIN activity, and employer reporting. Exceeding the limit, even unintentionally, may result in:
- Loss of student status
- Study permit refusal at renewal
- Ineligibility for post-graduation work permits
This is why understanding how many hours an international student can work in Canada is not optional but essential.
Part-time international student work hours
Part-time international student work hours are calculated weekly, not monthly. Working 25 hours one week and 15 the next still counts as non-compliance.
Key clarifications:
- Multiple employers count toward the same 20-hour limit
- Paid internships outside program requirements count as work
- Gig and freelance work must follow the same rules
Students often underestimate how strictly how many hours an international student can work in Canada is enforced.
Co-op programs and special authorizations
Some students may legally exceed standard limits if:
- Work is mandatory for their program
- A valid co-op work permit is issued
- Employment aligns with academic requirements
Without these conditions, standard limits apply regardless of job type.
Studying in Canada while working strategically
To successfully study in canada while working:
- Prioritize flexible employers familiar with IRCC rules
- Track weekly hours precisely
- Avoid cash jobs or undeclared income
- Align work experience with long-term PR pathways
Canada welcomed over 800,000 international students in 2025, and compliance audits increased significantly. Understanding how many hours an international student can work in Canada protects long-term immigration goals.
Why professional immigration guidance matters
Misinterpreting how many hours an international student can work in Canada can delay permanent residence plans by years. A regulated immigration consultant ensures your work history supports future applications such as PGWP, Express Entry, or PNPs.
Need personalized guidance? Contact Truong Immigration to receive expert advice tailored to your study permit, work eligibility, and long-term immigration strategy in Canada.