Indian students in Canada face new rules: 24-hour work cap, SDS programme ends

Canada has implemented its new rule of raising the weekly cap on work hours during classes from 20 to 24 hours for international students. It has also ended the SDS programme for Indian students.

In Short

• Indian students in Canada can now work up to 24 hours per week
• SDS programme ends, affecting expedited applications
• New study permit rules aim to strengthen programme integrity

Canada has increased the number of hours international students can work off-campus during academic sessions in a major update to its International Student Programme. Eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week, up from the previous limit of 20 hours.

In early September, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) had announced that the new rule capping work hours for international students at 24 hours per week would come into effect later this autumn.

Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has now confirmed that this change has officially come into effect as part of new regulations designed to strengthen the programme’s integrity.

This extended work-hour limit is expected to provide more financial flexibility to students who are looking to support themselves on extended holidays while ensuring focus on their studies. This also addresses potential labour shortages.

However, Canada has also introduced stricter rules for switching learning institutions. International students must now apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before making such changes.

GOODBYE TO SDS FOR INDIAN STUDENTS

Canada has ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) programme, which had expedited study permit processing for Indian students for the past six years.

While this move is part of broader changes to align temporary residency with Canada’s long-term economic goals, it has significant implications for Indian students.

Applications submitted under the SDS programme before the November 8, 2024, 2 pm ET deadline will still benefit from faster processing. However, new applications must now go through the regular study permit stream, which typically takes longer to process.

Indian students, who make up a significant portion of Canada’s international student population, will now need to navigate these changes carefully.

The increased work hours come as a relief, but the end of the SDS programme may add delays to the permit application process.

AIMS TO ROOT OUT FRAUD AND SUPPORT STUDENTS

The changes are part of Canada’s broader efforts to make its International Student Programme more sustainable by rooting out fraud and protecting students from financial vulnerabilities.

Marc Miller emphasised that these measures are crucial for maintaining the programme’s quality and credibility while ensuring it continues to meet economic needs.