Work Restrictions for International Students in Canada

International students studying in Canada are typically subject to a 24-hour weekly work limit during the school term. However, there are exceptions to this rule that allow students to work more under certain circumstances.

Exceptions to the Weekly Work Limit

• On-Campus Jobs: Jobs located directly at the student’s school, whether within the institution, with a faculty member, or at a private business on campus, are not subject to the weekly work limit. Students who start their own businesses on campus also fall under this exemption.
• Freelancing Abroad: International students are permitted to take on freelance projects for clients outside Canada without any restrictions. While this work is not considered part of the Canadian labor market, students must still report the income earned from these projects for tax purposes in Canada.
• Break Periods: During official school breaks, which can range from a minimum of one week to up to 150 days, students are allowed to work full-time for any employer, whether on or off campus.