Work permit holders can no longer study without a study permit
The temporary public policy that let certain work permit holders study without a separate study permit expired on June 27, 2026.
Key points
✓The temporary policy letting some work permit holders study without a study permit expired June 27, 2026.
✓Anyone wanting to study a program longer than the usual short-course exemption now generally needs a study permit, same as before the policy existed.
✓If you were studying under the old policy, confirm your status before enrolling in a new term.
What this means for you
If you are a work permit holder currently relying on the old study exemption, do not assume it still applies — check your specific situation against the official IRCC page before you enrol in anything new, since studying without the right permit can jeopardize your status.
Full detail
Since 2023, a temporary public policy allowed many work permit holders to enrol in a program of study without first obtaining a study permit. That policy expired on June 27, 2026.
Work permit holders who want to study a program longer than the usual short-course exemption now generally need to apply for and hold a study permit, as they did before the temporary measure. Anyone currently studying under the old policy should confirm their status before enrolling in a new term.
Always confirm your specific situation on the official IRCC page before making study or enrolment decisions.
General information, not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules change often — confirm details on the official source above and, for your situation, consult a licensed RCIC or immigration lawyer.