Exploring Options to Study in Canada Without a Study Permit
In response to Canadaís decision to cap international study permits for the next two years, many foreign nationals are exploring alternatives to study in Canada without a study permit. According to Immigration,
Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there are specific scenarios under which individuals may qualify for exemption from the requirement.
Who Qualifies for Exemptions? Short-term Students: Those attending a post-secondary program in Canada lasting six months or less do not require a study permit.
Family or Staff of Foreign Representatives: Relatives or staff members of a foreign representative accredited by
Global Affairs Canada may study without a permit. Members of Foreign Armed Forces: Under the Visiting Forces Act, certain foreign military personnel and designated civilians do not need a study permit. However, their family members may still require one.
Registered Indians in Canada: Individuals with Registered Indian status in Canada are exempt from needing a study permit.
Minor Children: Minor children in Canada do not need a study permit under specific conditions, such as being a refugee or having parents who are refugees, Canadian citizens, or permanent residents. Additionally, minor children attending preschool, primary, or secondary school in Canada may not require a permit under certain conditions.
Temporary Residents and Asylum Seekers in Quebec: Those eligible may participate in French language and cultural integration courses without a study permit. Temporary Residents in Settlement Programs:
Individuals enrolled in provincially or territorially administered settlement and integration courses do not require a study permit. Workers with Valid Work Permits: Foreign workers with a valid work permit issued on or before June 7, 2023, or those authorized to work while their work permit application is being processed, can study without obtaining a separate study permit.
Benefits of Obtaining a Study Permit
Despite these exemptions, there are significant advantages to securing a study permit. For minor children, a study permit opens up access to secondary school co-op work programs, certain social services, and seamless transitions between educational levels without needing to change permits. For adult students, a study permit allows full-time registered students at designated learning institutions to work on or off campus, depending on their permitís conditions. Those without a study permit cannot work while studying and would need to apply for a separate work permit.