Canada Allows Foreign Workers to Study Without Permit

On September 9, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a temporary measure allowing certain foreign workers in Canada to pursue up to six months of study without needing a separate study permit. This initiative aims to utilize skilled workers more effectively and support public services.

The policy specifically targets tradespeople, nurses, and laboratory technicians, who often require short-term licensing courses or training programs. The previous requirement for a study permit had caused delays for these professionals.

Under the new arrangement, eligible workers can complete short-duration educational requirements related to their professions without the additional step of applying for a study permit. However, those wishing to pursue full-time studies must still apply for a standard study permit.

This exemption is set to expire on December 31, 2027, and does not create a new immigration pathway or alter existing work permit conditions. The government remains committed to reducing the temporary resident population to below 5% of the total national population before the end of 2027.