You have a Canadian work permit and want to take courses. Do you need a separate study permit? The answer depends on the length and type of program.
The 6-Month Rule: No Study Permit Needed for Short Courses
Work permit holders can study programs of 6 months or less without a study permit. This covers language courses, professional development workshops, short certification programs, continuing education courses, and online courses of short duration. These can be taken at any time without notifying IRCC.
Programs Longer Than 6 Months: Study Permit Required
For any program longer than 6 months — a college diploma, degree, or multi-semester credential — you need a study permit. Apply online through your IRCC account from inside Canada while your work permit is still valid. The process: get a letter of acceptance from a DLI, apply online, pay the $150 CAD fee, and provide required documents.
What Happens to Your Work Permit?
Getting a study permit does not cancel your work permit. You can hold both simultaneously. If your open work permit remains valid, you can continue working under its conditions. If you shift your primary status to student, off-campus work is limited to 24 hours/week during academic sessions.
Strategic Use: Working Toward PR
Many work permit holders pursue additional Canadian credentials while working. Evening or part-time study while working full-time is common. Completing an eligible program on a valid study permit makes you eligible for a PGWP after graduation — potentially a stronger PR pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can taking a short course hurt my work permit?
A: No — studying under 6 months is explicitly permitted and does not affect your work permit.
Q: If I get a study permit and complete an eligible program, do I get a PGWP?
A: Yes — PGWP eligibility is based on completing an eligible program on a valid study permit, regardless of whether you also held a work permit during your studies.
Bottom Line
Work permit holders can freely study programs under 6 months without any additional permit. For longer programs, apply for a study permit from inside Canada. Holding both permits can open the door to a PGWP and stronger PR pathway after graduation.
