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Canada’s updated work-hour policy has created a lot of noise in Bangladesh. Students keep asking the same questions: “Can I finally cover my living expenses through part-time work?”, “Does this mean Canada is cheaper now?”, “Will this help with my visa?”

Here’s the thing: the new 24-hour work rule is helpful, but not in the way many people think. It’s not a shortcut, it’s not a guarantee of financial independence, and it doesn’t replace proof of funds. What it does is give students more flexibility and breathing room—if they plan responsibly.

This guide breaks down the rule clearly so you know exactly how it affects your study plan, your finances, and your visa application.

I’m Asaduszzaman Shakil, CEO of Shakil Education Group. Every week, we counsel Bangladeshi students who are unsure whether they can afford Canada after the cost increases of recent years.

When the 24-hour rule was announced, many thought it was a magic solution. But after reviewing real cases and speaking with students across Toronto, Manitoba, Alberta, and Nova Scotia, here’s what I’ve learned:

• The rule helps, but it won’t cover all your expenses.
• It works only if you balance study and work properly.
• Visa officers still expect clean proof of funds, regardless of the rule.

This is an opportunity—not a guarantee. Let’s break it down properly.

Here’s the simple version:

International students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular academic sessions.

This replaces the previous limit of 20 hours per week.

Who is eligible?

• Students enrolled full-time
• Students studying at a recognised Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Students in programs that are 6 months or longer
• Students holding a valid study permit

Who is not eligible?

• Students who drop to part-time status
• Students on unauthorised leave
• Students in non-DLI institutions
• Students who violate the conditions of their study permit

When does this apply?

• During regular semesters
• Up to 24 hours per week

Unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (e.g., summer, winter holidays)

Before: Students could work 20 hours per week during semesters.

Now: Students can work 24 hours per week.

This looks like a small increase, but it has a meaningful financial impact—if you use it properly.

To work 24 hours legally, you must:

1. Stay enrolled as a full-time student

Even one semester of part-time status can cost you your right to work.

2. Maintain satisfactory academic progress

Failing courses or skipping classes can cause problems.

3. Hold a valid study permit stating “eligible to work off-campus”

If your permit doesn’t mention this, you need an update.

4. Work only after your program officially begins

Arriving early does not allow you to work.

5. Keep your work within the permitted hours

Overworking—even by a few hours—can affect:

• Study permit
• PGWP

Future PR applications

Let’s break it down with realistic numbers.

Average hourly wage in Canada:

CAD 15–18
 (Some cities go higher, but this is the practical range.)

Weekly earning potential with 24 hours:

CAD 360–430

Monthly earning potential:

CAD 1,440–1,720

Average monthly expenses:

Depends on the city.

Toronto / Vancouver:
 CAD 1,800–2,200+

Winnipeg / Halifax / Regina:
 CAD 1,200–1,600

Reality check for Bangladeshi students

• In smaller cities, part-time work can cover a large portion of living costs.
• In major cities, you will still need additional support.
• This rule helps you survive—not save.

This is why clean proof of funds is still crucial at the visa stage.

Resource: Work off campus as an international student

A common misunderstanding among Bangladeshi applicants is:

“If I can work more hours, I don’t need to show full proof of funds.”

This is incorrect.

Visa officers evaluate:

• Tuition coverage
• Living expenses
• Sponsor stability
• Income source
• Consistent bank history

The ability to work 24 hours does not reduce Canada’s financial requirements. In fact, working more hours can imply you are unable to support yourself—if your application is not properly balanced.

Working 24 hours a week sounds simple, but here’s how it actually looks:

24 hours of work + 15–22 hours of classes + study time = packed schedule

Students who try to push beyond 24 hours face:

• Academic decline
• Mental stress
• Risk of violating permit conditions
• Losing eligibility for PGWP in worst cases

My advice is simple:
 Use the 24 hours wisely, don’t rely on it blindly.

1. Toronto / Vancouver

High expenses. The 24-hour rule helps, but not enough to be financially independent.

2. Winnipeg / Manitoba

Lower expenses. Part-time income can cover 70–80% of living costs.

3. Halifax / Nova Scotia

Steady job availability + moderate expenses. Best balance for Bangladeshi students.

4. Alberta / Saskatchewan

Higher wages in some sectors. Work opportunities are decent if you're flexible.

Real success depends on your willingness to take any legal job—warehouse, restaurant, retail, cleaning, delivery, etc.

1. Belief that this replaces proof of funds

It doesn’t. IRCC still checks financial stability.

2. Thinking two part-time jobs guarantee savings

It depends entirely on the city and the cost of living.

3. Forgetting about tax deductions and irregular hours

Your actual income may vary.

4. Working beyond 24 hours

Even one violation can affect future visas.

5. Using SIN for someone else’s job

This can permanently damage your immigration record. Be strategic, not reckless.

At Shakil Education Group, we guide students honestly. We don’t sell false promises or unrealistic expectations. Our job is to help you:

• Choose the right city
• Understand real living costs
• Match your financial situation with suitable colleges
• Prepare a strong, believable visa file
• Plan how to balance study and work

We want you to succeed academically and financially without risking your future.

The 24-hour work rule is a positive step for international students, especially those from Bangladesh. But it’s not a shortcut—it’s a support system. If you use it wisely, it helps you manage your life in Canada without unnecessary pressure.

If you want personalised guidance based on your budget, city preference, or study plan, reach out. My team and I are ready to help you navigate Canada with clarity and confidence.

Can I work 24 hours in my first semester?

-Yes, if your program has officially started and your study permit allows off-campus work

Can I work two part-time jobs?

-Yes, as long as the total does not exceed 24 hours per week.

Do I need a separate work permit?

-No. Your study permit already includes the work condition.

Can I work full-time during semester breaks?

-Yes, during scheduled holidays declared by your college/university.

Does this work-hour rule help with PR?

-Indirectly, it improves your financial stability, but PR depends mainly on skills, experience, and CRS points

Does this apply to dependents?

-No. Spouse work rights depend on their own work permit.