Maple News reports that it is indeed possible for foreign nationals in Canada to hold both a study permit and a work permit at the same time — provided they meet the eligibility requirements for each. These permits serve different legal purposes and have distinct application conditions, but when used together correctly, they offer international students and professionals additional flexibility for advancing their careers and education in Canada.
To be eligible to hold both permits concurrently, applicants must separately qualify for each. This means satisfying the study permit conditions — such as being accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), proving financial support, and meeting health and security requirements — as well as complying with the criteria for a work permit, which may include having a job offer from a Canadian employer, an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) in some cases, or other qualifying exemptions.
When applying for both permits, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expects applicants to include a ‘letter of explanation.’ This document should clearly detail how the individual intends to balance their academic responsibilities with their work commitments. For online applicants, this letter must be uploaded in the “Client Information” section of their document checklist.
While applying for both permits is possible, newcomers should be cautious. Holding a study and work permit simultaneously may impact future immigration options, such as eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The key distinction is that to qualify for a PGWP, students must have continuously studied full-time in a PGWP-eligible program, and any deviation — such as working while studying without proper authorization — could affect their eligibility.
In some cases, foreign workers in Canada may be allowed to study without needing a separate study permit. IRCC allows this under certain conditions — generally, when studies are short-term and incidental to the individual’s main purpose, which is work. However, pursuing full-time academic studies usually still requires a valid study permit.
According to Maple News, strategically managing both permits can offer international students and professionals a unique opportunity to gain Canadian education and work experience simultaneously — a valuable combination for those seeking permanent residency later on. As always, it’s important to ensure all documentation is accurate and that the applicant remains in compliance with both work and study permit conditions.
Careful planning, including legal guidance and a well-drafted explanation letter, can enhance your chances of obtaining both permits and making the most of your time in Canada.