Foreign workers in Canada can now enrol in short‑term courses without obtaining a separate study permit.
What has changed
- A temporary public policy announced on 9 September 2026 exempts holders of a valid work permit from the usual study‑permit requirement, even if the course extends beyond the period originally authorized for their stay.
- The exemption applies only to study programs six months or less in duration.
- The policy is effective 4 September 2026 and will remain in force until 31 December 2027, unless revoked earlier.
Eligibility criteria
- The individual must possess a valid work permit.
- The intended study program must be ≤ 6 months.
- The exemption lasts until the earlier of:
- The expiry date of the work permit, or
- The expiry or revocation of the policy (31 Dec 2027).
Regulatory context
- Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations 188(1)(c), foreign nationals may normally study without a permit for programs of six months or less only if the program ends before the authorized stay expires.
- The new policy overrides this restriction for work‑permit holders.
Policy background
- The current measure supersedes an earlier public policy (effective 27 June 2023 – expired 27 June 2026) that allowed similar study rights to workers who had applied for a work permit before 7 June 2023, including those with implied status.
- The earlier policy was signed on 5 August 2026 and replaced by the September 9 announcement.
Impact
- As of 30 June 2026, 1.5 million foreign nationals in Canada hold only a work permit.
- Approximately 630 000 individuals hold study permits, some of whom also have work permits.
- The expanded eligibility could affect a substantial portion of the temporary‑worker population, allowing them to pursue short courses without additional paperwork.
Practical considerations
- Applicants should ensure their work permit remains valid for the entire duration of the study program.
- Because the policy is temporary, any change in its status could affect ongoing studies; monitoring official updates is advisable.
- Institutions may still require proof of enrollment and may need to confirm the applicant’s work‑permit status.
The policy provides a streamlined route for temporary foreign workers to upskill or pursue short‑term education while remaining in Canada, but its temporary nature and reliance on the underlying work permit mean that beneficiaries must stay aware of both permit expiry dates and any future policy changes.
Source article: www.cicnews.com
