In recent times, a significant development has unfolded in the lives of international students pursuing their dreams in Canada. The federal government’s decision to extend the temporary policy lifting the 20-hour-per-week work cap until the end of the school year has been met with a collective sigh of relief. This policy, initially launched as a pilot project in November 2022, was a response to the shortages in Canada’s labour force. However, its extension brings comfort to students grappling with the rising costs of tuition and living expenses.
Gunwant Singh Atwal, a healthcare management student from India at Cape Breton University, shared his elation about the news. Since the work cap was lifted last year, Singh Atwal has been working full time at a call centre in Sydney, alongside many other international students. His sentiments echoed those of countless others who found hope and optimism for their future as they can continue to work to sustain themselves financially.
The extension, announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister Marc Miller, will remain in effect until April 30, 2024. Minister Miller also hinted at potential further enhancements, including the consideration of increasing off-campus work hours to 30 hours per week during the school year. This move comes in response to the recognition that more than 80 percent of international students are currently working beyond the initial 20-hour limit.
Mateusz Salmassi, the director of advocacy at the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA), emphasized the positive impact of this decision. CASA has been advocating for the permanent removal of the work cap, addressing the cost-of-living crisis faced by international students. The temporary relief, according to Salmassi, provides students with much-needed breathing room.
While the majority of students appreciate the extended policy, some critics, like Amanjit K., an immigration consultant based in Windsor, Ont., express skepticism. Amanjit K. believes that the 20-hour work cap served as a “blessing in disguise,” allowing international students to focus on their studies and long-term goals without being sidetracked by additional work obligations.
The concerns raised by critics highlight the delicate balance that international students must strike between work and academic commitments. Emmanuel Ndedigwe, a student from Nigeria at B.C.’s Coquitlam College, emphasized the necessity of earning enough to cover daily living expenses. The temporary policy not only eases financial strain but also discourages students from engaging in “under the table” work that may expose them to potential exploitation.
In light of this development, it becomes crucial for stakeholders, including educational institutions and policymakers, to continue assessing the impact of such policies on international students. As we await the publication of the survey results from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), it is clear that the journey of international students in Canada is evolving, with both challenges and opportunities.
At Directpath Canada, we understand the unique challenges faced by international students, and we are committed to providing comprehensive Global Recruitment, Immigration, and Settlement Services. Our excellence in services has been recognized, and we stand ready to support students in navigating the complexities of studying and working in Canada. Join us in shaping a successful academic and professional journey.
