How to Study Part-Time on Your Work Permit Without a Study Permit

If you’re on a valid work permit in Canada and want to take a course or short program to build your skills, you now have an opportunity that didn’t exist a month ago: you can study for up to six months without applying for a study permit. In September 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a temporary policy that removes this barrier for thousands of working immigrants. Here’s what changed and how to make sure you’re eligible.

What IRCC Changed in September 2026

On September 9, 2026, IRCC introduced a temporary public policy that allows work permit holders to pursue part-time or short-term studies without a separate study permit. The exemption applies to programs that run six months or less, even if the program extends slightly past your current work permit expiry date (provided your work permit is valid when you start studying).

This policy took effect on September 4, 2026, and will remain in place until December 31, 2027. It replaces an earlier exemption that expired on June 27, 2026, and it’s designed to help skilled workers—including tradespeople, nurses, laboratory technicians, and others already authorized to work in Canada—upgrade their qualifications without the delays and costs of applying for a study permit.

IRCC began notifying eligible work permit holders shortly after the announcement, so if you received an email from IRCC or saw a notification in your IRCC account, that’s confirmation you’re in scope.

Who Can Study Without a Study Permit

Eligibility is straightforward: if you hold a valid work permit—whether it’s your first permit, an extension, or any other type—you qualify. Your work permit doesn’t need to be a specific category. The only hard requirement is that your permit must remain valid throughout your studies.

Here’s what that means in practice: if you’re enrolled in a six-month program and your work permit expires in five months, you have a problem. Your work permit must be active for the entire duration of your study. If you’re planning to study and you know your work permit expires soon, this is the moment to apply for an extension before you enroll.

What doesn’t qualify under this exemption: Full-time studies still require a study permit. If the program you want to take is full-time or if you intend to study full-time while on your work permit, you must apply for a study permit separately. This is the most common misunderstanding, so read it twice.

What “Six Months or Less” Actually Means

The exemption covers programs up to six months in duration. This includes:

• Certificate programs (short-term vocational or professional credentials)
• Diploma programs lasting six months or less
• Part-time evening or weekend courses
• Online programs (delivered from Canada or elsewhere)
• Trades training or apprenticeship modules
• Professional development or upskilling courses

If a program is longer than six months, or if you’re pursuing a full degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD), you must apply for a study permit. The six-month limit is a hard boundary.

What You Need to Do (And What You Don’t)

Here’s the great part: you don’t need to apply for anything or notify IRCC. Eligible work permit holders do not need approval before enrolling. You simply enroll in your program and proceed. IRCC notified eligible work permit holders automatically after the announcement, so if you have a valid work permit, you should be covered.

However, there are practical steps to take before you enroll:

1. Check your work permit validity. Log into your IRCC account and confirm that your work permit is valid for the entire duration of your program. If it expires before or during your studies, apply for an extension now—processing times can take weeks or months.

2. Confirm the program duration. Verify with your school or institution that your program runs six months or less. If it’s listed as “one year part-time” or “full-time equivalent six months,” ask the school to clarify the actual duration of your enrollment.

3. Confirm it’s not full-time. The exemption applies to part-time or short-term studies. If your program requires full-time attendance or is classified as a full-time program, you need a study permit.

4. Keep records of your enrollment. Once enrolled, save your enrollment letter, course schedule, and any documentation showing the program duration. You don’t need to submit these to IRCC now, but they’re good to have if questions arise later.

What Happens When Your Work Permit Expires

The exemption is valid only while your work permit is active. Here’s the timeline:

• If your work permit expires before your program ends: The exemption stops applying. You’ll need a study permit to continue studying legally.
• If you want to continue studying after your work permit expires: Apply for a study permit before your work permit runs out. Processing times for study permits vary by country, so don’t wait until the last minute.
• If your program ends before your work permit expires: You can stay in Canada and work under your work permit as usual. No issues.

Why This Matters for Your Immigration Journey

Many work permit holders are on the path to permanent residence—either through Express Entry, a provincial nominee program, or a future pathway we don’t yet know about. Upskilling while you work strengthens your profile: it shows Canadian employers that you’re invested in your career, it can lead to better job offers and higher earnings, and it demonstrates the kind of adaptability that immigration officers value.

This exemption removes one major friction point: you no longer have to choose between study and work, or wait months for study permit approval. You can start building new skills this month.

Important Reminder: This Policy Is Temporary

This exemption is set to expire on December 31, 2027. IRCC can also revoke it at any time without notice, as is standard practice with temporary public policies. If you’re considering taking a course, don’t delay—the window is now, and rules can change.

Questions About Your Specific Situation?

Every work permit holder’s situation is unique. If you’re unsure whether your program qualifies, whether your work permit will cover the duration of your studies, or whether you need a study permit instead, that’s where an RCIC can help. We can review your specific circumstances, confirm your eligibility, and make sure you’re not taking an unintended risk with your status in Canada.

Email us at hello@bisonimmigration.com to get started or ask a question.