Federal government limits work hours for international students

Summary

A new federal rule in Canada restricts international students to working no more than 24 hours per week, down from 40, affecting their financial stability. Advocates argue the change is necessary for students to focus on their studies, while others claim it's unfair, especially amid inflation. The rule, reinstated after being temporarily lifted during the pandemic, has led to students cutting expenses and seeking more affordable living arrangements. Critics say it devalues education and makes life harder for students who rely on extra income.

Takeaways

• 📉 New federal rules in Canada limit international students to working 24 hours per week, down from 40 hours previously.
• 🏛️ The change is seen by some as necessary to ensure students focus on their studies, while others argue it's unfair and unwelcoming.
• 💼 Students who relied on the higher work hours for financial stability are now facing challenges and have had to cut down on expenses.
• 🌐 The pandemic led to a temporary lifting of the 20-hour work cap to address labor shortages, allowing students to earn more.
• 🔄 In April, the federal government announced the reintroduction of the work hours cap, reverting to pre-pandemic regulations.
• 🎓 An economic professor supports the change, believing it will help students focus more on their education.
• 📚 Some students who previously worked less are in favor of the new rules, arguing that all students should prioritize their studies.
• 💵 International students contribute significantly to the Canadian economy, with tens of billions of dollars annually.
• 🚫 Advocates argue that new rules and restrictions, including the work hour cap, are making the environment for international students more hostile.
• 📈 The new work hour cap comes alongside other federal requirements like increased financial prerequisites for students, which some find volatile and stressful.

Q & A

What is the new federal rule regarding international students' work hours in Canada?

The new federal rule limits international students to working 24 hours per week, starting from a certain month this year.

How did the pandemic affect the work hours cap for international students in Canada?

During the pandemic, the federal government temporarily waived the 20-hour cap on work hours to ease labor shortages, allowing students to work more and earn more money.

Why was the work hours cap reintroduced for international students in April?

The work hours cap was reintroduced as things were inching back to normal, indicating a return to pre-pandemic regulations.

What are the financial implications for international students due to the new work hour cap?

International students may experience less financial stability due to the reduced work hours, leading some to cut down on expenses, such as moving to cheaper accommodations and reducing spending on groceries and eating out.

What is the perspective of an economic professor on the new work hour cap for international students?

An economic professor agrees with the new cap, suggesting that it will help students focus more on their studies rather than working, which could potentially devalue post-secondary education if students prioritize earning over learning.

How do some international students feel about the reintroduction of the work hour cap?

Some students who are used to working under the previous cap welcome the move, believing that it is unfair for others to work excessively and not focus on their studies.

What is the economic contribution of international students to Canada according to the federal government?

International students contribute tens of billions of dollars to the Canadian economy every year.

What are the concerns raised by advocates regarding the new rules and restrictions for international students?

Advocates argue that the new rules and restrictions, including the work hour cap, are unwelcoming and unfair, as not every student can afford to go to school without the extra income.

What additional requirements have been mandated by the federal government for international students?

The federal government has mandated new requirements such as doubling the amount of money students need to have before coming to Canada and a new cap on the number of applications the government would accept.

How does the new work hour cap affect the life of international students during an era of inflation?

The new work hour cap makes life harder for students during inflation, as they may struggle to pay for rent and basic necessities without the additional income from working more hours.

What is the sentiment of international students regarding the volatility of rules and regulations?

International students feel that the frequent changes in rules and regulations make the situation volatile and uncertain, making it difficult for them to trust what will happen next.