IRCC has come up with amendments to the study and work authorization for international students in Canada. While the requirement of a co-op work permit for post-secondary international students has been removed, the other changes, such as expansion of work authorization for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applicants and foreign apprentices, are still under consideration.
In a significant Canada immigration update for 2026, effective from April 1, 2026, IRCC has removed the need for a separate co-op work permit for eligible post-secondary international students. International students whose programs included mandatory work placements such as co-ops, internships, or practicums previously had to apply for both a study permit and a co-op work permit. Under the updated rule, students only require a valid study permit with on-campus work conditions. The work placement must be an integral part of their program and should not exceed 50% of the total program duration. The Canada co-op work permit removal is not applicable for secondary school students.
Students who have already submitted their applications for co-op work permits have the option to withdraw them. Additionally, the IRCC may cancel such applications and will inform the students that a separate co-op work permit is not needed.
Along with the changes that have already been implemented, IRCC is also considering several other reforms to expand the work authorization for international students and graduates further.
International students previously had to apply for multiple permits to complete a single work-integrated program. This often created delays and more administrative work. The removal of a separate co-op work permit simplifies the immigration process and reduces the waiting time and paperwork. The Canada student work permit changes will therefore help students to begin their work placements on time and to easily transition from study to employment.
The work authorization extension for PGWP applicants will give them more stability and certainty to continue working without interruptions and allow them faster entry into the workforce.
The removal of the co-op work permit requirement has already been implemented. The other proposed changes are under consultations with the provinces, territories, and education stakeholders. While a specific date has not been announced, IRRC will most likely implement the proposed changes, as it has a track record of implementing modifications outlined in its Forward Regulatory Plan. Furthermore, the changes are in line with the government’s broader goal of simplifying immigration processes.
The federal government is bringing reforms to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada. The work authorization expansion for international students and graduates is part of the new policy.
As the immigration rules are changing, students and graduates must plan carefully. They have to be compliant with international students Canada work rules and must plan their study-to-work pathway strategically. They should ensure they meet all eligibility conditions for co-op, PGWP, and post-study work options.
Immlaw Global, the best Canada immigration consultants Kerala will assist students and skilled workers in understanding the changing immigration policy shifts and how they will affect eligibility, work rights, and long-term pathways in Canada. We will guide you through the study permits, co-op and PGWP compliance, and the PR pathways amid the changing immigration landscape.
Feel free to contact us for your queries.
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International students in Canada can complete required co-op or internship work without a separate co-op work permit. They only need a study permit provided the work is a part of their study program, is 50% or less of the total program length, and they follow the work limits
Post-secondary international students at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) pursuing programs with mandatory work placement do not need a co-op work permit in Canada.
The Canada IRCC new rules 2026 regarding the co-op permit has come into effect from April 1, 2026.
If you have already applied for a co-op permit, you can withdraw your application, or IRCC may cancel it automatically.
Yes, you can work while waiting for a PGWP in Canada. You should have completed the program, must have applied before the expiry of the study permit, must have been eligible to work while studying, and should not have exceeded the work hours before applying.
International students are allowed to work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time with unlimited hours during their scheduled breaks.
The co-op work permit was removed to make the immigration process simpler for international students. It will further reduce the administrative delays for the students and IRCC.
Yes, secondary school students need a co-op work permit.
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