Updated 2025 Work Regulations for International Students in Canada
Canada remains a leading destination for international students, offering top-tier education, cultural diversity, and clear paths to work and permanent residency. In 2025, the government rolled out updated work regulations designed to support students while meeting labour market needs.
If you’re studying or planning to study in Canada, it’s important to understand these changes to stay on track and maximise your experience.
This guide covers the key updates from on-campus work to post-graduation options.
Understanding the 2025 Changes
The 2025 updates aim to tighten work eligibility while improving oversight. These rules are part of Canada’s broader immigration reform and were implemented in response to rising numbers of international students and concerns over exploitation and academic performance.
Key highlights include:
• Stricter limits on off-campus work hours.
• Tighter monitoring of academic progress.
• Clearer pathways from student visas to work permits.
1. On-Campus Work Rules (2025)
International students with valid study permits are still allowed to work on campus without needing an additional work permit. The 2025 updates have not changed this benefit. You may work for:
• The institution you’re enrolled in.
• A faculty member or research group.
• A private business located on campus (such as a bookshop or café).
Requirement: You must be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Off-Campus Work Rules
Previously, international students could work up to 20 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions. In 2025, this limit has been revised to 15 hours per week during class terms, with the goal of encouraging better academic performance.
During scheduled breaks (like summer or winter holidays), students can still work full–time.
3. Co-op and Internships
If your programme includes mandatory work placements (co-op or internships), you’ll still need a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit. The 2025 updates encourage institutions to provide stronger support in connecting students with reputable employers for these placements.
4. Remote and Freelance Work
Remote work (including freelancing or digital gigs) is growing in popularity. However, in 2025, Canadian authorities clarified that all work, whether in person or remote, counts toward your weekly hour limit. This includes:
• Freelance writing
• Online tutoring
• Social media or content creation for pay
Unreported or excessive hours even online can affect your immigration status.
5. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Updates
After graduation, international students may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work full-time in Canada. In 2025:
• PGWPs are only issued for programmes that are at least 8 months long and meet certain quality standards.
• Some private colleges that previously qualified no longer make the list, so choose your institution carefully.
Validity: The PGWP duration depends on your programme length, with a maximum of 3 years.
6. Working While Waiting for PGWP
In 2025, eligible graduates who apply for a PGWP before their study permit expires are allowed to work full-time while waiting for a decision just as in previous years. This gives you time to transition smoothly into the workforce.
7. Employer Compliance and Student Protection
To prevent student exploitation, the Canadian government has strengthened enforcement around employer compliance. Employers must:
• Pay legal wages
• Follow employment standards
• Avoid overworking students beyond their permitted hours.
Students are encouraged to report abuses anonymously to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Conclusion
Canada remains open to international students, but the 2025 work rules focus on academics, fair jobs, and responsible immigration.
Stay updated through your school and IRCC. Study well, work smart, and build the future you came for.
