According to Maple News, a temporary policy introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in June 2023 now allows certain foreign workers to study in Canada without obtaining a study permit. This interim measure, designed to support skill development and workforce flexibility, is valid until June 27, 2026, unless it is rescinded sooner.
To qualify, individuals must hold a valid work permit or have applied for a work permit or its extension on or before June 7, 2023. Those who applied on or before this date and are authorized to work under section 186(u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations are also eligible. Importantly, this exemption is available across all provinces, including Quebec, where a CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec) is not required for eligible applicants.
Eligible workers can pursue studies without a study permit until the earliest of three possible dates: the expiry of their work permit, June 27, 2026, or whenever the policy is terminated. Workers with pending permit applications can start studying immediately and continue until their application is either approved or refused, or until the policy ends.
Applicants may need to provide proof of eligibility to their designated learning institution (DLI). Acceptable documents include a valid work permit, an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC, a work authorization letter, or an official email from IRCC confirming policy eligibility.
Co-op placements tied to educational programs may require additional steps. Those with open work permits can usually participate without extra paperwork. However, those with employer-specific permits must apply for a second permit if their co-op employer is different or the occupation changes. A letter explaining work-study arrangements is recommended for clarity.
While the policy grants the flexibility to study, foreign workers must still fulfill the obligations in their existing employment contracts. IRCC will not intervene in employment terms, and work permits under this policy are not subject to study-related conditions.
Those planning to enroll in programs extending beyond June 2026 or hoping to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) should apply for a regular study permit. The policy does not make participants eligible for a PGWP.
Work undertaken while studying full time under this exemption cannot be counted toward the Canadian Experience Class or CRS points under Express Entry. However, educational achievements may still add value under the Federal Skilled Worker Program’s adaptability factor, especially if the studies occur at a DLI with PGWP-eligible programs.
Maple News highlights that this policy offers a unique chance for foreign workers to upgrade qualifications while remaining active in Canada’s labour force. However, given its limitations, particularly for those eyeing long-term academic or immigration goals, eligible individuals should carefully evaluate whether this temporary route meets their future plans.