Are you currently in Canada on a work permit but wish to stay longer and boost your future career opportunities? One of the smartest ways to extend your legal stay in Canada while investing in your future is by transitioning from a work permit to a study permit.
At Globexa Immigration, we help hundreds of clients successfully switch from temporary worker status to international student status with carefully planned strategies and strong documentation. In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this transition, including requirements, timelines, financial documents, and how to avoid mistakes that could lead to refusals.
1. Why Transition from a Work Permit to a Study Permit?
There are multiple benefits of switching from a work permit to a study permit in Canada:
1. Upgrade Your Skills
Pursuing education in Canada means learning from world-class faculty, gaining practical exposure, and increasing your long-term employability in Canada or abroad.
2. Extend Your Stay Legally
If your work permit is expiring and you don’t yet qualify for PR, a study permit gives you a new, legal reason to stay in Canada for the duration of your program.
3. Open a Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
Completing a Canadian credential from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and gaining local experience through a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can significantly improve your Express Entry profile or make you eligible for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
4. Spouse and Family Benefits
Your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit while you study, and your children can attend Canadian public schools for free.
At Globexa Immigration, we often recommend this pathway for clients looking to combine immigration goals with personal and professional development.
2. Can I Apply for a Study Permit from Inside Canada?
Yes, if you are a temporary resident in Canada (as a worker, visitor, or student), you are eligible to apply for a study permit from inside Canada.
You must:
Hold valid legal status in Canada at the time of application.
Have a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Prove that you have enough financial support to pay for your tuition and living expenses.
Intend to leave Canada after your authorized stay, unless you become a PR.
3. Step-by-Step: How to Switch from Work Permit to Study Permit in Canada
Here’s a complete roadmap from Globexa Immigration for transitioning from worker to student status:
Step 1: Choose the Right Program and DLI
Select a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and program that suits your background and career goals. Ideally, choose a program that is:
Relevant to your previous education or work experience
Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit
Located in a province where future immigration options like PNPs are available
Need help picking the right program? Globexa Immigration offers personalized counselling to match you with the best colleges and universities across Canada.
Step 2: Apply and Get a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Apply to your selected institution. Once accepted, they’ll issue a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), which is a key requirement for your study permit.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documentation
Gather the following documents:
Valid passport and work permit
Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC, education loan, or sponsor letter)
Academic documents (transcripts, certificates)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV
Passport-size photos
Digital photo and biometrics (if required)
Medical exam (if applicable)
Pro Tip from Globexa Immigration: A well-written SOP that clearly explains why you’re switching from work to study is crucial to getting approval. We specialize in writing powerful SOPs that convince visa officers of your genuine intentions.
Step 4: Apply Online via IRCC Portal
Log in or create an account on the IRCC website and submit your application online. Select the option to apply for a study permit from within Canada.
Pay the application fee (CAD $150) and submit biometrics if required.
Step 5: Wait for Processing and Decision
You can stay in Canada during processing as long as you applied before your current work permit expires.
Typical processing time: 3 to 8 weeks (depending on case and time of year)
4. Can I Work While Waiting for My Study Permit?
If your work permit is still valid, yes, you can continue to work.
If it expires after applying for your study permit, you may be on maintained status, allowing you to remain in Canada legally while waiting for a decision—but you cannot work unless specifically authorized.
5. Financial Requirements for a Study Permit in Canada
To be eligible, you must prove you can cover:
Tuition Fees (varies by college, average CAD $12,000–$20,000 per year)
Living Expenses (minimum CAD $10,000/year or CAD $833/month outside Quebec)
Return transportation
Acceptable proof of funds includes:
Bank statements
GIC certificates
Education loan sanction letter
Pay stubs from employment
Letter of financial support from a sponsor
Globexa Immigration can guide you through arranging your financial documentation so that your file is strong and complete.
6. Common Reasons for Refusal (and How to Avoid Them)
Refusals usually occur due to:
Weak Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Insufficient financial proof
Unclear educational goals
Irrelevant program selection
Failure to explain intent to return to home country (if PR is not claimed yet)
Globexa Immigration’s expert team can pre-screen your case and eliminate weak points before you apply.
7. FAQs: Switching from Work Permit to Study Permit
Q1: Can I apply for a study permit while working full time?
Yes, you can apply while working, but make sure to submit the study permit application before your current status expires.
Q2: Can I study without a study permit?
Only if your program is 6 months or shorter. Most full-time college or university programs require a valid study permit.
Q3: Do I need to leave Canada to apply for a study permit?
No. As a temporary resident, you can apply from within Canada.
Q4: What if my study permit is refused?
You may have the option to reapply with a stronger file or consult with Globexa Immigration for appeal or alternate solutions.
8. Conclusion
Switching from a work permit to a study permit is a strategic move to extend your stay in Canada, build your qualifications, and boost your chances of permanent residency. With proper planning, documentation, and expert guidance, your transition can be smooth and successful.
At Globexa Immigration, we offer end-to-end support—from choosing a program, securing admission, preparing documents, to submitting your application. Whether you’re a worker nearing the end of your permit or planning long-term settlement in Canada, we’re here to help.
