Under a new IRCC public policy, eligible foreign nationals with a valid work permit may study without a study permit in a course or program lasting six months or less. The temporary measure takes effect 30 days after it was signed on August 5, 2026, and is set to expire on December 31, 2027.
Purpose of the temporary public policy
IRCC says the policy is intended to give temporary foreign workers already in Canada greater flexibility to pursue short-term studies. It is designed to help workers upgrade skills, obtain new credentials or professional licensing, and move into higher-skilled occupations.
The department also says the measure supports labour market needs, including shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, while strengthening pathways to permanent residence for workers whose skills and contributions support Canada’s economy.
Who can study without a study permit
The public policy applies to foreign nationals who hold a valid work permit. It covers a course or program of studies that is six months or less.
Delegated officers may grant the exemption where the foreign national meets the policy condition of holding a valid work permit. Eligible foreign nationals remain subject to all other applicable eligibility and admissibility requirements that are not exempted under this or another public policy.
Regulatory exemption and its duration
The policy permits an exemption from paragraph 188(1)(c) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. That provision requires that a course or program of studies be completed within the period of stay authorized when the person entered Canada.
An exemption under this policy ends when the work permit used to meet the condition expires, or when the public policy expires or is revoked, whichever occurs first.
When the policy takes effect and ends
The public policy comes into effect 30 days after its August 5, 2026 signature date. It is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2027.
IRCC states that the public policy may be revoked at any time without prior notice.
Source: IRCC Public Policy