As of June 27, 2023, a temporary public policy allows certain foreign workers to pursue studies in Canada without needing a study permit.
Eligibility Criteria
You may be eligible to study without a study permit if you are already authorized to work in Canada under one of the following conditions:
You hold a valid work permit that was applied for on or before June 7, 2023, or
You have received a letter permitting you to work while your work permit extension is being processed, provided the extension application was submitted on or before June 7, 2023.
If your work permit application was submitted after June 7, 2023, you are not eligible for this policy.In certain situations, there may be more details to consider regarding studying without a study permit.
For Workers in Quebec
As of June 27, 2023, workers in Quebec are eligible to study in the province without needing a study permit, under this temporary public policy. You do not need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) to study, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for this exemption. This temporary CAQ exemption aligns with the temporary public policy introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
If You Have Another Type of Work Permit
If you’re studying without a study permit and plan to start a co-op work placement, you may need to apply for a new employer-specific work permit before starting your co-op. Open work permit holders do not need to apply for a new work permit.Employer-specific work permit holders only need to apply for a new work permit if your co-op employer or occupation differs from your current one. You will hold two valid work permits at the same time:
Your original work permit authorizing you to study under this exemption.
A new work permit authorizing your co-op placement.
Other Documents You May Need
Letter of Explanation: If your co-op placement requires changes to your current work arrangements, you should submit a letter of explanation. This letter should explain:
That you are studying under the temporary public policy allowing study without a study permit.
How your work arrangements with your current employer are modified for the co-op placement (e.g., part-time work while studying or taking leave to complete the co-op).
You can submit the letter via your online account or through the web form if you are unable to submit it online.
Medical Exams: Some co-op placements may require a medical exam. If your placement falls under these requirements, you must complete the necessary exam. For more details, check who needs a medical exam and how to arrange one.
If You Have a Study Permit:
If you already have a study permit and a valid co-op work permit, you are eligible for additional study programs under this measure, as long as you:
Follow the conditions of your current study permit.
Continue your main study program.
Ensure that the additional study program does not exceed the length of your current co-op work permit.
Note: You must maintain your study permit to complete your ongoing study program.
How Long You Can Study Without a Study Permit
The duration of your eligibility to study without a study permit depends on when you applied for your work permit or work permit extension.If You Have a Valid Work Permit and Applied on or Before June 7, 2023
If you are eligible and currently hold a valid work permit, you can study without a study permit until the earliest of the following dates:
The expiry date of your work permit
The expiration of this public policy (June 27, 2026, or earlier if revoked)
If You Have a Work Permit Application in Progress and Applied on or Before June 7, 2023
If your work permit application was submitted on or before June 7, 2023, you can study without a study permit until the earliest of the following:
The expiry date of your approved work permit or work permit extension
The date your work permit or work permit extension application is refused
The expiration of this public policy (June 27, 2026, or earlier if revoked)
When to Apply for a Study Permit
Even if you’re eligible to study without a study permit, there are situations where obtaining one may be beneficial. You should apply for a study permit if:
You plan to enroll in a course, degree, or program that extends beyond the dates allowed under this policy, or
Your work permit extension application is refused.
How to Prove Your Eligibility to Study Without a Study Permit
If the institution where you plan to study requests proof of your eligibility to study without a study permit, you will need to provide one of the following documents:
Your valid work permit
Your acknowledgment of receipt (AOR)
The work authorization letter issued when you applied for your work permit extension
If you received an email confirming your eligibility under this public policy, bring a copy of the email to the institution. This email contains your unique client identifier and is tied to your work authorization, which the institution can use as proof of your eligibility.
Work Permit Conditions
While you typically must meet the conditions of your work permit, under this temporary measure, you are not required to follow any work permit conditions related to studying.
Employment Contract
If you wish to adjust the terms of your employment contract, such as working fewer hours to accommodate your studies, it is your responsibility to discuss and come to an agreement with your employer. We are not responsible for monitoring or enforcing your employment contract.
Applying for Permanent Residence
If you’re a worker studying full-time and want to apply for permanent residence, note the following:
Your work experience will not count towards eligibility for the Canada Experience Class or Canadian work experience points under Express Entry’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Your full-time studies will contribute toward adaptability points for the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
To qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you must study at a designated learning institution (DLI) that offers programs eligible for a post-graduation work permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
You will not be eligible for a post-graduation work permit upon completing a program under this public policy. A study permit is required to be eligible for a post-graduation work permit.
