Allows Foreign Workers To Study Without Authorization

Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC) announces a new temporary policy to benefit foreign workers in Canada.

According to this new policy, temporary foreign workers on work permits in Canada will be able to enroll in study programs longer than 6 months without needing a study visa/permit.

This new interim action will apply to everyone who has a work permit or whose work permit extension is still ongoing effective June 27. This policy will stay in effect for the next 3 years until June 27, 2026.

IRCC has removed the cap on the duration of a study program for work permit holders. Previously, work permit holders needed a study visa/permit if they wanted to enroll in a course longer than 6 months.

Each year, tens of thousands of temporary foreign workers bring their expertise to Canada, boosting the economy and helping to fill important gaps in the labor market. Foreign employees contribute significantly to Canada’s GDP, but they sometimes encounter restrictions on the kinds of education programs they may enroll in to pursue their goals and seize new opportunities.

This new policy will improve the employment options for foreign nationals as well as their chances of settling here permanently. This new policy is great news for people who want to further their education and acquire additional training, especially those who need to upskill or confirm their international credentials via specific programs.

With this new temporary provision in place for three years, work permit holders are free to enroll in full- or part-time studies for as long as their work permits are in effect or until the policy’s expiry. Foreign workers must still apply for a study visa if they want to continue their education beyond the time allowed by their work permit.