International Students Boost Essential Services During COVID-19
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Government Lifts Work Restrictions for Students in Essential Services
Effective immediately, international students in Canada can work over the previous 20-hour weekly limit if employed in essential services like health care, critical infrastructure, or food supply chains. This initiative aims to bolster the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Supporting Health and Essential Services
April 22, 2020 – Ottawa – To mitigate the effects of COVID-19, the Canadian government is allowing international students to work beyond the standard limit, provided they are in key sectors. This policy change is crucial for sectors experiencing workforce shortages.
Many international students are nearing completion of their health and emergency services training. This change offers health-care facilities immediate access to qualified personnel during this critical time.
Official Statements
“Immigrants, temporary foreign workers, and international students play a vital role as frontline workers in essential sectors. We appreciate their dedication to safeguarding Canadians’ well-being and maintaining essential services.”
– The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Information
Consult the Guidance on Essential Services and Functions in Canada During the COVID-19 Outbreak to verify if the student’s work qualifies for extended hours.
This temporary adjustment is valid until August 31, 2020.
Statistics Canada indicated that in 2017-2018, over 11,000 international students were enrolled in Canadian health-care programs, making up about 4% of the total.
Additional Resources
Contact Information
Media Contacts Only
Kevin Lemkay
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
