Canada clarifies work permit rules for international students after rejections

Canada’s immigration authority has now issued an important clarification for international students following reports of work permit rejections affecting Indian students. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stressed that students must carefully follow rules on employment while studying, warning that unauthorised work can have serious consequences, including refusal of future permits of removal from Canada. The statement from IRCC came after Portage College of Calgary, Canada asked ndian students protesting after their work visa got rejected by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to seek legal advice, stating that it “continues to seek clarification regarding this issue”. In an update shared on the website dated July 21, the college said: “Portage College continues to seek clarification regarding this issue and remains committed to providing factual information and keeping students informed as new information becomes available”. The college further revealed that it has scheduled a follow-up meeting with representatives from the group next week. “This meeting will provide an opportunity to continue our dialogue, answer questions where we are able, and share any new information that becomes available,” it added.Clarification on work while studyingIn a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), IRCC reminded students that they are only allowed to work under specific conditions tied to their study permits. The agency emphasised that working without authorisation — even part-time — may be considered a violation of immigration law. IRCC directed students to its official guidance on the consequences of unauthorised work, which outlines penalties ranging from inadmissibility findings to enforcement action.“Important information for international students who plan to work while studying:• You can only work in Canada as an international student if your study permit conditions say you can.• If you are eligible to work off campus, you can only work up to 24 hours per week while classes are in session.• Working more than you are allowed is a violation of your study permit conditions, which can have serious consequences,” wrote IRCC in a post.Canada college tells protesting Indian students to retain important documentsOn the website, the Portage College has advised students to retain important documents that may be relevant to any future application, request for reconsideration, or other process undertaken on the advice of an authorized immigration professional. List of documents that students should keep copies of include:• Study permits• Letters of acceptance• Enrolment records• Program completion documents• Transcripts• PGWP applications• IRCC refusal letters and officer notes, if available• Correspondence with IRCC or an authorised immigration representativeGet the latest technology news and updates. Download the TOI App.