Today, Minister Marc Miller addressed the eagerly anticipated updates to the regulations governing off-campus working hours for international students in Canada. This announcement marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the experiences and opportunities available to international students studying in the country.
During the briefing, Minister Miller highlighted the key changes and updates to the off-campus work regulations, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting international students and fostering a welcoming environment for them to thrive academically and professionally.
One of the central points of discussion was the expansion of weekly work hours permitted for international students during regular academic sessions. Minister Miller revealed that, in alignment with feedback from stakeholders and in recognition of the evolving needs of international students, the government has increased the maximum allowable weekly work hours to 20. This adjustment provides international students with greater flexibility to pursue part-time employment opportunities while balancing their academic commitments.
Furthermore, Minister Miller underscored the importance of scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer vacations, as opportune periods for international students to engage in full-time employment opportunities. By allowing international students to work full-time during these breaks, the government aims to facilitate deeper integration into the Canadian workforce and provide avenues for students to gain valuable practical experience in their fields of study.
In addition to these changes, Minister Miller addressed the expanded eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. By extending eligibility for the PGWP, the government seeks to support international students in their transition from academia to the Canadian workforce, enabling them to contribute their skills and talents to the country’s labor market.
Throughout the media availability, Minister Miller emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that international students have access to meaningful work opportunities that align with their academic pursuits and career aspirations. He encouraged international students to familiarize themselves with the updated regulations and to take advantage of the resources available to them to navigate the process effectively.
In conclusion, Minister Marc Miller’s announcement regarding the new rules governing off-campus working hours for international students in Canada reflects the government’s dedication to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from around the world. These updates represent a positive step forward in enhancing the experiences and opportunities available to international students studying in Canada.