A number of international students have valid concerns regarding how rules governing their employment may be impacted by the current college faculty strike. The Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development has provided CSA with the following statement:
Note on Employment for International Students – Rules during a Labour Disruption
While this issue falls into the jurisdiction of the federal government, Ontario will continue to listen to and work with students who have concerns.
The rules about work for international students during a school year are the same and not affected by a labour disruption. International students are permitted to work off-campus for up to 20 hours a week during a scheduled academic term (i.e. right now) and full-time during scheduled academic breaks. The scheduled academic breaks are Christmas holidays, March break, and summer holidays, in addition to a reading week (where applicable).
If an international student is unable to reach their place of employment during a labour disruption, this does not affect the number of hours they are permitted to work at another location. International students should refer to the terms and conditions indicated on their study permits for any additional restrictions on their ability to work in Canada.
For more information, international students should contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) at 1-888-242-2100 or visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1367&top=15.
