New IRCC Policy Empowers Foreign Workers to Pursue Studies Without Authorization

In a significant development, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC), Sean Fraser, has unveiled a groundbreaking policy that offers immense benefits to foreign workers in Canada.

The newly announced temporary policy allows temporary foreign workers holding work permits to participate in study programs exceeding six months without requiring a separate study visa or permit.

Effective immediately from June 27, this interim measure applies to all individuals currently possessing a work permit or those whose work permit extension is still in progress. The policy will remain in effect for the next three years until June 27, 2026.

Notably, the IRCC has abolished the previous restrictions on the duration of study programs for work permit holders, eliminating the need for a study visa/permit for courses longer than six months.

Every year, a considerable number of temporary foreign workers bring their expertise to Canada, bolstering the economy and bridging crucial gaps in the labor market. While these foreign employees make substantial contributions to Canada’s GDP, they have often encountered limitations in pursuing education programs aligned with their aspirations and seizing new opportunities.

This new policy heralds great news for individuals eager to advance their education and gain additional training, especially those seeking upskilling or validation of their international credentials through specialized programs. With this temporary provision now in place for three years, work permit holders are granted the freedom to enroll in full- or part-time studies as long as their work permits remain valid or until the policy’s expiration date.

However, it is important to note that if a foreign worker wishes to continue their education beyond the duration permitted by their work permit, they must still apply for a study visa. Nevertheless, this progressive policy marks a significant step towards empowering foreign workers in their educational pursuits, offering them greater flexibility and opportunities to enrich their knowledge and skills.