Can You Study in Canada Without a Study Permit? Find Out if You Qualify

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has provided updated guidelines, clarifying that certain work permit holders in Canada may continue their studies without requiring a study permit. Here’s a breakdown of this policy, eligibility criteria, and its benefits.

Policy Overview

As of December 6, 2023, IRCC confirmed that work permit holders who applied for their work permits on or before June 7, 2023, are allowed to study without a study permit. This is part of a temporary policy effective until June 27, 2026.

Eligibility for Study Permit Exemption

To qualify under this exemption, you must meet one of the following conditions:

1. Current Work Permit Holders: You must hold a valid work permit for which you applied on or before June 7, 2023.
2. Renewal Applicants: If you applied to renew your work permit before June 7, 2023, and have received a work authorization letter from IRCC, you remain eligible to study without a study permit.

Note: New applicants who applied for work permits after June 7, 2023, are not eligible under this policy.

Additionally, if you hold both a valid study permit and co-op work permit, you may enroll in additional study programs, provided:

• You adhere to the conditions of your current study permit.
• The additional program is shorter than your current co-op work permit’s duration.

Duration of Study Without a Study Permit

Eligible work permit holders can study in Canada without a study permit until the earliest of the following:

• Your work permit expires.
• Your work permit renewal application is refused.
• The policy expires on June 27, 2026.

Proving Study Permit Exemption

When applying to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you can provide the following documents to confirm your exemption:

• A valid work permit.
• An Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC for a renewal application.
• A work authorization letter issued by IRCC.
• An email from IRCC confirming your eligibility under this public policy.

Benefits of Continuing Education in Canada

Studying in Canada as a work permit holder offers numerous advantages:

Enhanced Employment Opportunities

• Research shows that newcomers with Canadian study experience tend to outperform others in the labor market.
• In the first two years post-permanent residency, Canadian graduates earn 27% more than those who studied abroad.

Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)

Continuing education increases eligibility for PR through programs like Express Entry, which uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate candidates based on education and other factors.

CRS Education Points Overview:

Additional CRS points include:

• Up to 50 points for Canadian work experience and education.
• Up to 30 points for completing post-secondary education in Canada.

Access to Provincial Immigration Pathways

Many provinces offer pathways tailored for international graduates, combining study and work experience:

Take Advantage of This Opportunity

By leveraging this policy, work permit holders can enrich their education, enhance career prospects, and build a stronger foundation for permanent residency in Canada. If you’re eligible, seize the chance to further your personal and professional goals.