🇨🇦 NEW: Some Foreign Workers Can Now Study in Canada Without a Study Permit

A new temporary public policy from IRCC, effective September 4, 2026, gives eligible foreign workers more flexibility to pursue short-term education while working in Canada.

Under the new policy, a foreign national may study without a study permit when:

✅ They hold a valid work permit

✅ Their program of study is 6 months or less

The authorization continues until the earlier of:

• The expiry of the work permit; or• The expiry or revocation of the temporary public policy by the government of Canada.

What is different?

Normally, someone studying for 6 months or less without a study permit must also be able to complete the program within the period of stay originally authorized when they entered Canada.

The new policy removes that particular restriction for eligible work permit holders.

For example, a worker who originally entered Canada with a shorter authorized period, but later obtained a valid work permit extending well beyond that period, may now be able to take a short-term program without applying for a study permit.

Who could benefit?

This may be particularly useful for foreign workers who want to:

📚 Upgrade their skills

🎓 Obtain a short professional credential

💼 Improve their employment opportunities

🏥 Complete training related to in-demand occupations

📈 Strengthen their long-term career and immigration prospects

IRCC describes the policy as a way to help workers upgrade their skills, obtain credentials and potentially move into higher-skilled occupations.

Important: This is NOT a general study permit exemption

A work permit holder cannot simply enroll in a longer academic program without a study permit.

The program must be 6 months or less, and the person must have a valid work permit.

Also, there is an important immigration-planning issue for workers who study full-time: work experience gained during full-time studies under this policy will not count toward Canadian Experience Class eligibility or Canadian work experience points under Express Entry's CRS.

What about Quebec?

The temporary measure also applies to eligible workers studying in Quebec. Under the corresponding temporary arrangement, eligible workers do not need a CAQ for studies covered by this policy.

How long will this policy last?

The temporary public policy is currently scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2027, although IRCC may revoke it earlier.

Our perspective

This is a useful development for foreign workers who are already in Canada and want to add short-term education or professional training without going through a separate study permit application.

However, every case should still be reviewed carefully. The type and length of the program, validity of the work permit, study schedule and long-term immigration goals can all affect whether this policy is appropriate.

We can help you assess whether a short-term program fits your current status and broader plan for working, studying and potentially applying for permanent residence in Canada.