Canada Introduces Study Permit Exemption for Construction Trade Apprentices

Certain temporary foreign workers can now enroll in apprenticeship programs without needing a study permit, according to new details released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this exemption, a foreign national must:

• Hold a valid work permit.
• Have a job offer in an eligible construction occupation.
• Have an apprenticeship agreement registered with the relevant provincial or territorial authority.
• Meet all eligibility requirements at the time of application and decision.

This temporary public policy took effect on February 26, 2025, and will remain in place until February 26, 2027.

Announcement and Job Eligibility

Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced the policy on March 7, 2025, during a press conference in Woodbridge, Ontario.

A job’s eligibility is determined by its National Occupational Classification (NOC) code, not its job title. To verify a job’s NOC code, compare its duties to those listed under the lead statement of the NOC on Employment and Social Development Canada’s website. The job must align with at least 51% of the listed duties to qualify.

The NOC system is Canada’s official method for classifying occupations. While job titles may vary, it is the job duties—not the title—that determine the correct NOC classification.