Is it allowed for an open work permit holder to do classes and work towards a masters degree from an American university, while holding onto their full time job in Canada? This courses for the masters degree is 100% online and delivered via distance learning, and so does not require any study visa from the US.
Studying while on work permit
- Thread starter zekkeh
- Start date
Does it violate the terms of the canadian work permit if I do study at the US university?
Don’t believe you can study. You are doing distance learning so essentially studying while in Canada although this is an usual situation so would verify with an immigration lawyer. If you don’t need a US visa then it would make sense that you’d need a visa from somewhere.
This is incorrect.
OP is free to study a distance program in the US. It would only be an issue if the program was being offered by a Canadian school.
No - it does not. You are fine to do this since the school is in the US and not in Canada. Go ahead and take the studies while you work.
Hey zekkeh, I’m thinking the same now , I’m on work permit and thinking about distance learning graduation from another country does it valid or effect my status?
No issue with attending a school abroad while in Canada.
Thanks. And attending a distance program of a Canadian university while being in Canada on an open work permit ?
Thanks, I saw that temporary policy but it doesn't mention distance learning.
The question is for the new work permits that were issued after June 7, 2023.
I am referring to https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/other-considerations.html
Distance learning
Distance learning can be through e-learning, correspondence, or internet courses. Distance learning is a process by which technology is used in ways where the student does not have to physically be in the place where the teaching is taking place.
Since by definition distance learning does not require one to be in Canada, a study permit cannot be issued for this type of course. For example, if a foreign national authorized to work in Canada is prohibited from engaging in studies as per a condition of their work permit, they are allowed to engage in distance learning courses.
However, some distance learning courses include an in-Canada portion to the program (e.g., special tutorials or the writing of final exams). If the overall course of study is greater than six months, then the student requires a study permit for the in-Canada portion of the program, even if the in-Canada portion is less than six months. The duration of the study permit should be for the duration of the in-Canada portion only.
Specifically, here is the point "For example, if a foreign national authorized to work in Canada is prohibited from engaging in studies as per a condition of their work permit, they are allowed to engage in distance learning courses."