Breaking Barriers:
Unlocking Educational Opportunities in Canada
The Canadian government has introduced a new temporary measure aimed at supporting temporary foreign workers in pursuing their educational aspirations and enhancing their career opportunities.
The Honorable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced this measure, which eliminates the time limit on study programs that temporary foreign workers can enroll in without a study permit.
Eligibility and Application Process: Who Can Benefit from the Measure
Under this new policy, foreign workers are now able to seek additional training and education to advance their careers without the previous restrictions. This measure not only allows them to expand their knowledge and skills but also increases their prospects for future employment and facilitates their transition to permanent residency in Canada. Previously, foreign workers were only permitted to study in programs lasting six months or less while working. If they wished to pursue longer programs, they were required to apply for a separate study permit, posing a barrier to individuals seeking to improve their education, upskill, or validate their foreign credentials through specific programs.
Effective immediately, this 3-year temporary measure enables foreign workers to study on a full-time or part-time basis while their work permits remain valid or until the expiration of the policy, with no limitations on the program’s duration.
It is important to note that this temporary measure applies to individuals who possess a valid work permit or have submitted an application for work permit renewal on or before June 7, 2023, and have authorization to work. If a foreign worker intends to study for a period longer than their work permit allows, they are still required to apply for a study permit.
This progressive initiative by the Canadian government aims to facilitate the professional and personal growth of temporary foreign workers, recognizing their valuable contributions to Canada’s economy and labor market.
The new policy enables foreign workers to study without a time limit on the length of their program, providing opportunities for upskilling and validation of foreign credentials. This initiative aims to empower foreign nationals and enhance their job prospects, while also creating a potential future source of talent for Canada’s labor market.