A new temporary public policy from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada provides eligible work permit holders with greater flexibility to pursue short-term education while working in Canada.
Under the policy, eligible foreign nationals who hold a valid work permit may study in a course or program lasting six months or less without obtaining a separate study permit.
The policy took effect on September 4, 2026, and is scheduled to remain in place until December 31, 2027.
What has changed?
Foreign nationals can generally study without a study permit when their course or program lasts six months or less. However, the studies would normally need to be completed within the period of stay originally authorized when the individual entered Canada.
The temporary public policy provides an exemption from that requirement for eligible people holding valid work permits. This may be particularly helpful for workers who have extended their authorized stay in Canada and want to pursue short-term education or professional development.
Who may be eligible?
A person may be eligible to study under this temporary policy if:
- They hold a valid Canadian work permit.
- Their course or program is six months or less in length.
- Their studies can be completed within six months or before their work permit expires, whichever comes first.
A learning institution may ask the student to provide a copy of their valid work permit as proof of eligibility.
Holding a work permit does not automatically mean that every program or situation will qualify. Prospective students should review their individual circumstances and the official IRCC requirements before enrolling.
How long can an eligible worker study?
Eligible work permit holders may study for up to six months or until their work permit expires, whichever happens first.
For example, if someone has only four months remaining on their work permit, their authorization to study under this policy would generally end when that work permit expires.
The policy is currently scheduled to expire on December 31, 2027. IRCC may modify or revoke temporary public policies before their scheduled expiry, so students should always check the latest official information.
Important considerations
Work permit holders considering study under this policy should be aware of several conditions:
Employment conditions still apply
Workers must continue to comply with the employment conditions of their work permit. If attending classes requires a change to their working hours, they may need to discuss that change with their employer.
Co-op placements may require additional authorization
A student beginning a co-op or work placement may require another employer-specific work permit if the placement involves a different employer or occupation from the one authorized by their current permit.
Open work permit holders generally do not need an additional work permit for a co-op placement.
Full-time study may affect how work experience is counted
IRCC states that work experience gained while studying full-time under this policy will not count toward:
- Eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class
- Canadian work-experience points under the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System
Anyone planning to study full-time should consider this carefully and review the official IRCC guidance.
What this may mean for learners at LCC
For people already working in Canada, short-term education can provide an opportunity to strengthen English communication, develop practical workplace skills or pursue professional development without stepping away from employment.
At ISS Language & Career College of BC, part of ISSofBC, we welcome measures that give newcomers and temporary workers greater flexibility to continue learning and building their skills.
Because every person’s immigration circumstances and educational goals are different, our team can provide information about LCC’s short-term learning options, program schedules and admission requirements. We cannot determine immigration eligibility or provide immigration advice.
Before enrolling
Prospective students should:
- Confirm that their work permit is currently valid.
- Confirm that the complete program is six months or less.
- Ensure that the program will finish before their work permit expires.
- Consider whether studying will affect their employment schedule or immigration goals.
- Review the latest information directly on the IRCC website.
Read the official IRCC guidance for work permit holders studying without a study permit
Explore short-term learning at LCC
If you are interested in improving your English or developing new skills through short-term study, contact the LCC team to discuss available learning options.
Email: info@lcc.issbc.org
Phone: 604-684-2325
This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration policies and individual eligibility can change. Always consult IRCC or an authorized immigration professional regarding your circumstances.
