Temporary public policy to allow foreign nationals with valid work permits to study without a study permit

Background

Temporary foreign workers are a valuable part of Canada’s economy. The Department seeks to support these individuals by providing opportunities and greater flexibility to pursue short-term studies that enable workers already in Canada to upgrade their skills, obtain new credentials or professional licensing, and advance into higher-skilled occupations. This public policy aims to support labour market needs including helping address shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, while strengthening pathways to permanent residence for workers whose skills and contributions support Canada’s economy.

Public Policy Considerations

This public policy, pursuant to section 25.2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (the Act), will allow eligible foreign nationals who hold a valid work permit to study without a study permit for a course or program of studies of durations of six months or less. To be eligible for this public policy, the foreign national must hold a valid work permit.

I hereby establish that there are sufficient public policy considerations that justify the granting, in accordance with section 25.2 of the Act, exemptions from the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (the Regulations) listed below to foreign nationals who meet the conditions set out below.

Conditions (eligibility requirements):

Based on public policy considerations, delegated officers may grant an exemption from the requirements of the Regulations identified below if:

• The foreign national holds a valid work permit.

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions above are exempt from the following Regulations:

• The requirement in paragraphs 188 (1)(c) of the Regulations that the course or program of studies be completed within the period for stay that was authorized upon entry into Canada.

The exemption granted will apply until the work permit referred to in condition (1) expires, or the expiry or revocation of this public policy, whichever comes first.

Other Admissibility and Selection Criteria: Foreign nationals eligible under this public policy are subject to all other applicable eligibility and admissibility requirements not exempted under this, or another, public policy.

Effective Date and Expiration: This public policy comes into effect 30 days after the date of signature and will expire on December 31, 2027. The public policy may be revoked at any time, without prior notice.