A temporary IRCC measure lets eligible work permit holders already in Canada study for up to six months, or until their permit ends if sooner, without applying for a study permit. It is in effect until 31 December 2027. Full-time studies still require a study permit.
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Supporting economic growth and stronger public services by maximizing the contributions of temporary workers already in Canada (opens in a new tab, external government website)Published · Checked by MATES
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For study permit applications made on or after 1 September 2026 to study outside Quebec, a single applicant must show CAD 23,448 for the first year's living expenses, up from CAD 22,895. Tuition and travel are additional, and Quebec sets its own amounts.
Since 1 April 2026, eligible post-secondary international students no longer need a separate work permit for work placements required by their programme, such as co-op placements and internships. IRCC is withdrawing eligible pending co-op work permit applications.
IRCC expects to issue up to 408,000 study permits in 2026, including 155,000 for newly arriving students. Since 1 January 2026, master's and doctoral students enrolled at a public designated learning institution no longer need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL).
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