To drive economic growth, address labour gaps in key sectors and help eligible temporary workers maximize their contributions to Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is introducing a temporary measure to allow work permit holders to study for up to 6 months without a study permit. This targeted, time-limited measure will help eligible workers already in Canada—including tradespeople, nurses and laboratory technicians—to develop in-demand skills while continuing to work.

With this additional flexibility, temporary workers will be able to better support public services, home building, and nation-building projects that benefit all Canadians.

IRCC will begin notifying eligible work permit holders this week that they can study for up to 6 months or until their permit ends (whichever comes first) without applying for a study permit. This measure will remove an administrative step for workers who want to pursue short term licencing, education or training opportunities. It is in effect until December 31, 2027. Full-time studies will still require a study permit. 

This measure is not a new pathway for workers to come to Canada. The Government of Canada remains committed to reducing the temporary population to less than 5% of the total population by the end of 2027.

Canada continues to take a balanced and sustainable approach to immigration to strengthen the economy, meet workforce needs and better align arrivals with community capacity. This flexibility supports these objectives and helps build Canada strong.