Canada Eases Study Rules for Temporary Foreign Workers, Allows Up to 6 Months of Study Without Permit

The Canadian government has announced a temporary measure allowing eligible temporary foreign workers already in the country to study for up to six months without applying for a study permit. The initiative is aimed at helping workers upgrade their skills, obtain short-term training and pursue professional licensing while continuing to work.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the measure will particularly benefit workers in high-demand fields, including nurses, laboratory technicians and skilled tradespeople. The government says the move is intended to help address labour shortages and strengthen workers’ contributions to public services, home construction and other nation-building projects.

Eligible work permit holders will be able to study for up to six months or until their work permit expires, whichever comes first. The temporary measure will remain in effect until December 31, 2027. However, those pursuing full-time studies beyond the permitted short-term period will still need a study permit.

IRCC has started notifying eligible work permit holders by email. The government has also clarified that this is not a new pathway for bringing foreign workers into Canada. Instead, it is designed exclusively to provide greater flexibility to workers who are already in the country.

The government continues to pursue its goal of reducing the temporary resident population to less than 5% of Canada's total population by the end of 2027.