Eligible post-secondary international students in Canada no longer need a separate work permit for placements required by their study programme, according to an April 9, 2026 notice from IRCC. The department says the change took effect on April 1.
The notice covers required placements such as co-ops and internships, with employers approved by the student’s designated learning institution. It describes the measure as removing an administrative step from completing a single programme.
IRCC explicitly distinguishes this change from an expansion in the number of students authorised to work. The notice also says eligible, active co-op permit applications would be withdrawn by the department.
This is a background explanation of an earlier announcement, not a new development today. The official eligibility criteria remain the reference for the situations covered by the measure.
