IRCC: Some Work Permit Holders Can Study in Canada

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified that certain work permit holders can continue studying in Canada without obtaining a separate study permit. This policy applies to individuals who applied for their work permits on or before June 7, 2023, allowing them to pursue educational programs without the need for additional authorization. The temporary policy, introduced in 2023, is effective until June 27, 2026.

To qualify for this exemption, individuals must either hold a valid work permit applied for by the specified date or have submitted a renewal application by that date and received work authorization from IRCC while awaiting processing. Those who applied for work permits after June 7, 2023, are not eligible under this policy. Eligible individuals can study without a study permit until their work permit expires, their renewal application is refused, or the policy expires on June 27, 2026.

Work permit holders can demonstrate their study permit exemption to educational institutions by providing documents such as a valid work permit, an Acknowledgment of Receipt for a work permit extension application, a work authorization letter from IRCC, or an email confirming eligibility under the public policy. This facilitates enrollment in educational programs without the need for a separate study permit.

Continuing education in Canada offers significant benefits. Statistics Canada research indicates that newcomers with Canadian study experience prior to obtaining permanent residence tend to perform better in the labor market. In the first one to two years after gaining permanent residence, these individuals earned 27% more than those who studied abroad. Even a decade later, they continued to earn 9-12% more, highlighting the long-term advantages of Canadian education for newcomers.