Canada has introduced a new temporary policy that gives eligible foreign workers more flexibility to pursue short-term education and training while working in the country.
Effective September 4, 2026, certain foreign nationals who hold a valid Canadian work permit can study in Canada for up to six months without obtaining a separate study permit.
The measure, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is intended to make it easier for temporary workers to upgrade their skills, obtain professional credentials and pursue short-term training opportunities.
- Eligible work permit holders can study in Canada for up to six months without a study permit.
- The temporary policy is in effect until December 31, 2027, unless ended earlier.
- Short-term study can help workers gain skills, credentials, or training.
- Full-time study may affect how some Canadian work experience counts for future immigration applications.
- Private health insurance may still be needed if provincial coverage is not yet available.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify under the new temporary public policy, a foreign national must hold a valid work permit and enroll in a course or program that is six months or less in duration.
Eligible workers can study without a study permit for up to six months or until their current work permit expires, whichever comes first. This provides greater flexibility for workers whose authorized stay in Canada has been extended beyond the period originally granted when they first entered the country.
Under the usual immigration rules, foreign nationals may study without a study permit in a program lasting six months or less, provided the program can be completed within their authorized period of stay. The new policy removes this particular restriction for eligible work permit holders.
The temporary measure is scheduled to remain in effect until December 31, 2027, although the federal government may revoke it at any time without prior notice.
More Opportunities to Upgrade Skills
The federal government says the policy is designed to help temporary foreign workers develop skills that are in demand in Canada. Short-term courses may help workers obtain additional credentials, complete licensing requirements or develop skills that could lead to higher-skilled employment.
The measure may be particularly useful for workers in sectors experiencing labour shortages, including healthcare and skilled trades. IRCC has indicated that eligible work permit holders may be notified about their ability to study under the new policy.
It is important to note that studying full-time under this policy may have implications for future immigration applications.
For example, work experience gained while studying full-time may not count toward eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class or toward Canadian work experience points under Express Entry. Workers considering full-time studies should review the immigration requirements that apply to their individual circumstances.
Don’t Forget About Insurance Coverage
Whether you are coming to Canada to work, study or combine employment with short-term training, having appropriate insurance coverage is an important part of preparing for your stay. Temporary residents may not always be immediately eligible for provincial health coverage, and eligibility varies by province and individual circumstances.
Private Visitors to Canada insurance can help cover unexpected medical emergencies, hospitalization and other eligible healthcare expenses while you are in Canada.
If you are a foreign worker or temporary resident and are unsure what coverage may be appropriate for you, contact Arbetov Insurance to discuss available plans and find coverage suited to your needs.
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