Canada Removes Co‑op Work Permit Requirement for Eligible Post‑Secondary International Students

Key Point  

• Canada now allows eligible students to complete co‑op placements using only their study permit. 

Co‑op Work Permit Requirement 

On April 9, 2026, Canada announced that eligible post‑secondary international students no longer need a separate co‑op work permit to participate in required work‑integrated learning placements. 

What is the New Co-op Work Permit Policy  

Under the new policy, students may work for employers approved by their designated learning institution (DLI) as part of their academic program. The update does not expand work authorization or increase temporary resident volumes; it simply removes an unnecessary administrative step. 

IRCC also confirmed that it will withdraw all eligible and active co‑op work permit applications currently in process. Students with pending applications do not need to take any action. 

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