Work Permit Holders Can Now Study Without a Study Permit

Some work permit holders can now take short courses in Canada without applying for a study permit.

Last updated: September 9, 2026

If you have a valid work permit and received an email from IRCC about this new policy, you may now be able to study in Canada without getting a separate study permit.

What changed

Starting September 4, 2026, IRCC introduced a temporary policy allowing eligible work permit holders to study for up to 6 months without a study permit.

You don't need to apply for this benefit. If IRCC has identified you as eligible, they will notify you.

How this affects you

You can take a course or program that is 6 months or less while your work permit is valid.

But there is one important thing to remember: your permission to study ends when your work permit expires, even if you have maintained status while waiting for a new permit.

If you want to take a program longer than 6 months, you will need to apply for a study permit.

Not sure if this applies to you? Call us and we'll check your situation with you.