The Canadian government has announced changes to the off-campus work hours allowed for international students during academic sessions, limiting them to 24 hours per week starting September 2024.
During the pandemic, Canada allowed international students to work unlimited hours to help address labor shortages. This temporary measure provided much-needed support to businesses struggling to find workers.
As the country recovers from the pandemic, the government is adjusting its policies to strike a balance between supporting students and ensuring their primary focus remains on their studies.
Many international students aspire to work in Canada after completing their studies, and this is a positive trend for the country. These students will have already integrated into Canadian society and gained valuable skills through their education.
Because Canada continues to face labor shortages, retaining these skilled and educated individuals is crucial for the economy's growth and development.
The decision to allow international students to work 24 hours per week during academic sessions is a small but significant victory. Although the initial announcement suggested a 20-hour limit, the increase to 24 hours demonstrates the government's willingness to listen to students' concerns and find a compromise that supports their financial needs while prioritizing their education.
On May 1, 2024, Alberta released updated figures for its Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), revealing 4,146 Alberta Opportunity Stream applications, 1,739 Rural Renewal Stream applications, 234 Tourism and Hospitality Stream applications, and 947 Express Entry stream applications.
Born in Sri Lanka, Michael Ondaatje's journey to becoming one of Canada's most celebrated authors is a testament to the power of immigrant stories. His unique voice, blending fact and fiction, has captivated readers worldwide, with his novel "The English Patient" winning the Booker Prize and inspiring an Oscar-winning film adaptation.