How to Study on a Work Permit Without a Study Permit

A New Path for Working and Learning in Canada

Starting September 4, 2026, Canada introduced a temporary public policy that changes how international workers can pursue education. If you hold a valid work permit and want to enroll in a short course or certification program, you no longer need to apply for a separate study permit. This shift opens the door for thousands of temporary workers to upskill and advance their careers without navigating complex visa applications—a significant convenience that many have been waiting for.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how this new policy works, who qualifies, and the practical steps to enroll in a program while maintaining your work status in Canada.

What Changed: The New Study Policy for Work Permit Holders

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a temporary public policy allowing foreign nationals with valid work permits to study programs of 6 months or less without obtaining a separate study permit. This policy is effective September 4, 2026, and will remain in place until December 31, 2027.

Why does this matter? Previously, many work permit holders who wanted to pursue education had to apply for a study permit, which could mean taking time away from work or dealing with processing delays. The new policy streamlines this process for short-term learning opportunities like diplomas, certifications, language programs, or specialized courses.

According to Canada’s official policy page, eligible work permit holders can now study without triggering the need for a study permit application, as long as the program meets the eligibility criteria outlined below.

Who Qualifies for Study Without a Study Permit?

The eligibility requirements are straightforward:

You must have:

• A valid work permit at the time you enroll in the program
• A program of study that does not exceed 6 months in length
• Study authorization that continues for the shorter period: either 6 months or until your work permit expires, whichever comes first

Special note for Quebec: If you’re studying in Quebec under this policy, you do not need to obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration. This exemption applies specifically to work permit holders studying under this temporary public policy.

Important for co-op placements: If your co-op employer or occupation differs from your current work permit position, you will need to apply for an employer-specific work permit for the co-op placement. If you hold an open work permit, this requirement does not apply.

What This Policy Does and Doesn’t Cover

What is covered:

• Programs of 6 months or less
• Full-time or part-time study (as long as the program meets the 6-month requirement)
• Language programs, certifications, diplomas, and specialized courses
• Online programs (if the program is legitimate and properly accredited)

What is not covered or requires attention:

• Programs longer than 6 months—you will need to apply for a study permit
• Work experience gained while enrolled in full-time study will not count toward Canada Experience Class (CEC) eligibility or Express Entry points, even if you continue working part-time
• If your study schedule requires significant changes to your work hours or employment, you need to negotiate these adjustments with your employer—the policy suspends work permit conditions related to studying, but it does not change your employment status

How to Enroll: Your Step-by-Step Action Plan

Step 1: Confirm Your Work Permit Is Valid

Check the expiration date on your work permit. It must be valid on the date you enroll in the program. If your permit expires within 6 months, your study authorization ends on the expiration date (not 6 months from enrollment).

Step 2: Choose an Eligible Program

Select a program that is 6 months or less. This can be a language program (such as English or French), a professional certification (accounting, IT, project management), a skills training course, or a diploma program if it fits the timeline.

Step 3: Review Your Work Permit Conditions

Under this policy, any conditions on your work permit related to studying are suspended. However, if studying will affect your ability to work your regular hours, discuss scheduling with your employer in advance. You are responsible for negotiating any employment adjustments.

Step 4: Enroll in Your Program

Register with the educational institution. You do not need to apply for a study permit. Ensure the program is legitimate and accredited by checking the institution’s credentials with the provincial or territorial education authority.

Step 5: Keep Records

Keep a copy of your enrollment confirmation, work permit, and program details. If you travel outside Canada while enrolled, ensure your work permit remains valid and carry documentation showing you are a student on a valid work permit (not a separate study permit).

Step 6: Plan for Programs Over 6 Months

If you want to continue studying after 6 months or are interested in a longer program, you will need to apply for a study permit before your current authorization expires. Start this process well in advance to avoid any gaps in your legal status.

Key Reminders

This is a temporary public policy expiring December 31, 2027. If you’re considering longer-term studies beyond 6 months, plan to apply for a formal study permit to maintain continuous authorization.

Your employer is not obligated to accommodate study schedules, though many do. Frame any request for schedule adjustments professionally, and focus on how your learning benefits your role (if applicable).

If your program includes a co-op placement or practicum with a different employer, you may need a separate employer-specific work permit unless you hold an open work permit.

A Practical Opportunity for Growth

This policy recognizes that international workers contribute significantly to Canada’s economy and deserve the opportunity to develop their skills and credentials while living here. Whether you’re pursuing a language certification to improve your English or French, gaining a professional qualification in your field, or exploring a new area of expertise, this new pathway makes it easier to invest in your future without visa complications.

The 6-month window may seem short, but it’s long enough for many valuable, accredited programs—and it removes a significant administrative barrier that previously required separate study permit applications and processing times.

If you have questions about whether your program qualifies, how this policy affects your specific situation, or whether you should consider a study permit instead of relying on this temporary policy for longer-term goals, we’re here to help. Reach out at hello@bisonimmigration.com to discuss your upskilling plans and ensure you’re taking the right approach for your career path in Canada.