Temporary off-campus work measures will not be renewed 

Marc Miller, the Immigration Minister on April 29, 2024, announced the new guidelines on off-campus work policy for international students. The temporary work policy that allowed students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus will not be extended after April 30, 2024. This comes as a surprise to many as Canada was considering a 30-hour-per-week off-campus work policy for international students. 

International Students on their scheduled academic break will be allowed to work an unlimited number of hours, however, those attending summer classes must comply with the 20-hours-per-week rule. 

Balancing Work and Studies 

The decision to limit off-campus work hours is supported by research showing that working too many hours while studying can hinder the academic performance of students.  

Marc Miller, the Immigration Minister stated “As international students arrive in Canada; we want them to be prepared for life here and have the support they need to succeed. However, first and foremost, people coming to Canada as students must be here to study, not work. We will continue working to protect the integrity of our student program.” 

Starting this fall international students will be allowed to work up to 24 hours per week while their classes are in session. which would likely be sufficient combined with the increased cost of living requirement for international students announced back in December 2023 (a single study permit applicant must show additional funds of CAD $20,635 along with their tuition fees). 

Other Developments 

IRCC will also continue to develop the new Recognized Institution Framework to recognize post-secondary institutions that demonstrate excellence in the selection, support, and retention of international students. 

Want to Study in Canada? 

If you are looking to study in Canada and learn about the new guidelines, Brace Law can provide you with expert guidance and assistance. Our team of experts can help you navigate through the process successfully. 

To begin, contact Brace Law at 905-815-6555 or email staff@bracelaw.ca. We offer consultations and services in multiple languages, including English, Italian, Albanian, Arabic, Russian, Punjabi, Farsi, Hindi, Malayalam and Urdu. Trust Brace Law for reliable legal support! 

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1. How do I become a Canadian citizen?

In order to become a Canadian citizen there are some criteria that must first be met.  You must:

1. Be a permanent resident
2. Have lived in Canada for 3 out of the last 5 years
3. Have filed your taxes if you need to
4. Pass a citizenship test
5. Prove your language skills

2. What is the difference between citizenship and permanent residency in Canada?

The main difference between citizenship and permanent residency in Canada is that prior to becoming a citizen, one must become a permanent resident. Both permanent residence and citizenship have a different application process and requirements.  Learn more about becoming a permanent resident or citizen, and whether you are eligible for either status, by contacting the immigration lawyers at Brace Law.

3. What language level do I need when I apply for Canadian citizenship?

To become a Canadian citizen, you must show adequate knowledge of both of Canada’s official languages, English and French, by proving you are able to speak and listen at the Canadian Language Benchmarks Level 4 (CLB 4) or higher. To learn more about how your language level is measured, contact our immigration lawyers at Brace Law.

4. Who must take the citizenship test?

If you are between the ages of 18 and 54, you must take the citizenship test at the time you apply for citizenship.

5. Can I become a Canadian citizen when I marry a Canadian?

No, marrying a Canadian citizen doesn’t give you Canadian citizenship. To become a Canadian citizen, you must go through the general application process, as the requirements to attain citizenship are the same across all individuals. For assistance with your citizenship application, contact our immigration lawyers at Brace Law.

6. Can I include time spent outside of Canada as my physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship? 

This is applicable only in limited scenarios, such as being employed with the Canadian Armed Forces.

7. Can I leave Canada after mailing my citizenship application?

Yes, you can leave Canada after the application has been received. To ensure you stay eligible for Canadian citizenship, one of the requirements asks that you keep your Permanent Resident card with you on your travel so that you are able to return to Canada.

8. What if my citizenship application is refused?

If your application is refused, you can reapply right after receiving your decision. However, you should ensure you meet the requirements before reapplying. Contact the immigration lawyers at Brace Law to ensure that you are submitting a complete application.

9. If I am Canadian, and my child was born outside of Canada, are they Canadian?

Your child may be considered a Canadian citizen if at least one parent (legal or biological) was either born in Canada or became a Canadian citizen prior to the birth of the child.

10. What is dual citizenship?

Dual citizenship is when more than one country considers you to be a citizen.

We hope that this list has answered your most pressing questions about becoming a Canadian citizen. If you still have questions, would like more information about the process, or need assistance applying for citizenship, the team at Brace Law is here to help.

We serve our clients in English, Albanian, Italian, Arabic, Punjabi, Hindi, Farsi and Urdu with offices in Oakville and Vaughan. Call us at 905-815-6555 or email admin@bracelaw.ca. We can help! We Offer Consultations & Meetings by Phone & Virtually. Affordable Fees. Choose Brace Law and consider it handled.

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