Yes. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada now lets valid work permit holders study for six months or less without a separate study permit. The policy covers workers who received a subsequent permit while already in Canada. No extra application is needed. It stays in effect until December 31, 2027. Section 188(1)(c) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations already let temporary residents study for six months or less without a study permit. But there was a catch. The course had to finish within the period authorized at entry.
Workers who extended their permit from inside Canada often fell outside that window. The new temporary public policy fixes this gap. It applies to anyone with a valid work permit, including a subsequent one issued in Canada.
Who Qualifies for This Study Without a Permit Option?
Any foreign national with a valid Canadian work permit qualifies. IRCC has specifically flagged tradespeople, nurses, and laboratory technicians as groups likely to benefit.
Workers can study until their permit expires or for six months, whichever comes first. IRCC will begin notifying eligible work permit holders directly, so no separate application is required to benefit.
Does This Cover Full Time Study Too?
No. Full time programs still need a standard study permit. This measure only covers short courses of six months or less, things like a professional licensing exam, a bridging certificate, or a short technical upgrade.
Why Is IRCC Introducing This Now?
Canada wants more value from the workers already here. Officials point to labour gaps in health care, trades, and construction.
Ottawa has also said this is not a new pathway into Canada. The government remains committed to reducing the temporary resident population to under 5% of Canada’s total population by the end of 2027, so this measure is designed to work within that goal, not around it.
Source: Can Work Permit Holders Study in Canada Without a Study Permit?
How Long Will This Policy Last?
The measure runs until December 31, 2027, unless IRCC revokes it earlier. It supports broader goals around economic growth, public services, and skills development for people already contributing in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. If you already hold a valid work permit, you are automatically covered. There is no extra application.
You will need a standard study permit for anything beyond six months or for full time study.
Yes. That is the specific gap this policy closes. Subsequent, in Canada work permits are included.
No. IRCC has been clear this is not a new pathway to come to Canada. It is a flexibility measure for people already here.
It runs until December 31, 2027, unless cancelled earlier.
IRCC has not restricted this to specific fields, but the measure is aimed at training, licensing, and skills upgrading, like courses for tradespeople, nurses, and lab technicians.
Thinking about how a short course could strengthen your work permit status or move you toward permanent residence? ImmigCanada’s licensed consultants can walk through your specific permit conditions and study options. Book a Consultation with ImmigCanada.