Work Permit Holders in Canada Can Study Without a Study Permit: What You Need to Know

Canada has introduced an exciting opportunity for certain work permit holders to pursue education without needing a study permit. This temporary public policy, extended until June 27, 2026, allows eligible individuals to enhance their skills and career prospects without additional immigration hurdles.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of what this policy means, who qualifies, and how it benefits newcomers.

Who Can Study Without a Study Permit?

To qualify for this exemption, you must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Applied for a Work Permit Before June 7, 2023
• If your work permit application was submitted on or before this date, you can study without a study permit.
• This also applies if you applied to renew your work permit by this date and received a work authorization letter from IRCC.
2. Maintained Status
• If you applied to extend your work permit before it expired, you can continue working and studying while waiting for a decision.
  
  

Note: Those who applied for work permits after June 7, 2023, are not eligible under this policy.

How Long Can You Study Without a Study Permit?

You can study in Canada under this policy until:

• Your current work permit expires;
• Your work permit renewal application is refused or expires; or
• The policy itself ends on June 27, 2026.
  
  

Proof of Study Permit Exemption

When applying to a school, you can use one of the following documents to show that you’re exempt:

• A valid work permit.
• The Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC after applying for a work permit extension.
• A work authorization letter from IRCC.
• An email from IRCC confirming your eligibility under this public policy.
  
  

Benefits of Continuing Education in Canada

Studying in Canada without a study permit isn’t just convenient—it can lead to significant economic and immigration advantages:

1. Stronger Labour Market Outcomes
• According to research by Statistics Canada, newcomers with Canadian education experience earn 27% more within the first two years of becoming permanent residents compared to those without such experience.
• Even a decade later, they continue to earn 9-12% more than those without Canadian education.
  
  
2. Improved Permanent Residency (PR) Prospects
• Canadian education boosts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Express Entry.
• Higher education levels can earn you up to 150 CRS points, with additional points for Canadian work experience and language proficiency.
• Completing education in Canada may also make you eligible for provincial immigration pathways designed for international graduates.
  
  

Popular Provincial Pathways for International Graduates

Several provinces in Canada offer programs tailored for international graduates. These include:

These programs often prioritize candidates with Canadian education, work experience, or employment offers, making education a valuable investment for newcomers.

Why This Policy Matters

This exemption makes Canada even more accessible for work permit holders, enabling them to gain valuable education and improve their chances of long-term success in the country. Whether you aim to enhance your skills, increase your earnings, or build a stronger PR profile, this policy is a golden opportunity.

Take advantage of this temporary policy and explore your options to study in Canada while working toward your immigration goals!