Fresh Update from Zinchi International | September 10, 2026
Canada has introduced a new temporary measure that gives eligible foreign workers in Canada more flexibility to pursue short-term education and training without applying for a separate study permit.
Under the new policy announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), eligible foreign nationals who hold a valid Canadian work permit can study for a program lasting up to six months without obtaining a separate study permit.
The measure is aimed at helping temporary workers upgrade their skills, obtain additional credentials and pursue short-term professional training while continuing to contribute to Canada’s workforce.
Who Can Benefit?
To qualify under this new temporary public policy, a foreign national must:
- Hold a valid Canadian work permit.
- Enrol in a course or program that lasts six months or less.
- Continue to meet Canada’s other applicable immigration and admissibility requirements.
IRCC says the measure could particularly benefit workers such as tradespeople, nurses and laboratory technicians, among others, who may need additional training or licensing to advance their careers in Canada.
How Long Can They Study?
Eligible workers can study for up to six months or until their work permit expires, whichever comes first.
For example, if a worker has a valid work permit for another eight months, they may be able to undertake a qualifying six-month program.
However, if their work permit expires in three months, the authorization to study under this policy would also end when the work permit expires.
This Is Not a New Route to Canada
This is an important point for prospective immigrants.
The new measure does not create a new pathway for people outside Canada to obtain a work permit simply so they can study without a study permit.
IRCC describes the measure as a way to provide additional flexibility to eligible temporary workers already in Canada. It is intended to help workers develop skills and pursue short-term licensing, education or training opportunities.
Therefore, someone in Nigeria who wants to travel to Canada primarily to study should not assume that this policy eliminates the need for a study permit.
If your intended studies require a study permit, you must follow the regular Canadian study-permit process.
What About Full-Time Studies?
The announcement should also not be interpreted as permission for work permit holders to simply enrol in any full-time Canadian academic program without a study permit.
IRCC specifically states that full-time studies still require a study permit under this temporary measure.
Those considering a longer academic program, such as a college diploma or university degree, should therefore assess their circumstances carefully before enrolling.
How Long Will the New Policy Last?
The temporary public policy came into effect in September 2026 and is scheduled to remain in place until December 31, 2027.
IRCC also notes that the policy may be revoked earlier without prior notice.
What This Means for Nigerians
For Nigerians who are already legally working in Canada with a valid work permit, the announcement could provide a useful opportunity to pursue short-term professional development without going through a separate study-permit application, provided they meet the requirements.
For Nigerians outside Canada, however, this announcement should not be mistaken for a new study or work visa pathway.
If your goal is to study in Canada for longer than six months, you will generally need to explore the appropriate study permit route. If your goal is to work in Canada, you must first determine which work-permit pathway you may qualify for.
Our Advice
Canadian immigration policies can be detailed, and eligibility can depend on your individual circumstances.
Before making financial commitments or enrolling in a program based on this announcement, prospective applicants should verify their eligibility and the requirements attached to their intended course or program.
Zinchi International can help you understand your available options for study, work and immigration to Canada and guide you through the appropriate process.
Want to know which Canadian pathway may be suitable for you? Contact Zinchi International for professional guidance.
Official Source
This update is based on information published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on September 9, 2026.
