Canada Allows Work Permit Holders to Study Without Permit

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a temporary measure permitting eligible work permit holders in Canada to study for up to six months without needing a study permit. This initiative, announced via a statement on IRCC's X handle, is designed to support economic growth, address labor shortages, and help temporary workers acquire in-demand skills while continuing their employment.

The measure applies to various temporary workers, including tradespeople, nurses, and laboratory technicians. IRCC will begin notifying eligible individuals this week, allowing them to study until their work permit expires or for six months, whichever is shorter.

This measure is set to remain in effect until December 31, 2027. However, full-time studies will still require a study permit.

IRCC clarified that this initiative does not create a new pathway for workers to enter Canada and emphasized the government's commitment to reducing the temporary population to less than five percent of the total population by the end of 2027.