Work Permit Holders Can Now Study Without a Study Permit: What It Means for Trades Training in Montreal

If you hold a valid work permit in Canada, you can now take a course of 6 months or less without applying for a study permit. This follows a temporary public policy from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that took effect on September 4, 2026. In Quebec, a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) is also not required.

For people already working in Canada, this makes it much easier to build a new skill, move into a skilled trade or earn a recognized attestation, without waiting months for a study permit.

Who is eligible to study without a study permit?

You may be eligible if:

1. You hold a valid work permit (employer-specific or open)
2. Your course is 6 months or less
3. You finish your studies within 6 months, or before your work permit expires, whichever comes first

Your school may ask you to show proof that you're eligible. Under this policy, that proof is your valid work permit.

Important things to know before you enroll

The policy is flexible, but a few details matter:

1. Talk to your employer. The policy waives the study-related conditions on your work permit, but it doesn't change your employment contract. If you need to adjust your hours to attend class, you have to arrange that with your employer.
2. Full-time study and Express Entry. Work experience you gain while studying full-time doesn't count toward Canadian Experience Class (CEC) eligibility or Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. If you're planning for permanent residence, factor this in.
3. Co-op or work placements. If a course includes a placement with a different employer or in a different occupation, you may need a new employer-specific work permit. Open work permit holders are exempt.
4. Your work permit sets the limit. If your work permit expires, you can no longer study under this policy.

For the full, official details, see the IRCC policy page on canada.ca.

Short trade courses in Montreal that fit the 6-month limit

Aviron Technical Institute offers two in-house courses built for people who want job-ready skills quickly. Both are taught in English and French at our campus in the Town of Mount Royal.

General Welding (240 hours, 8 weeks)

Our General Welding course is an intensive, hands-on course that covers the four main welding processes used in industry:

1. SMAW (stick) welding on steel
2. GTAW (TIG) welding on steel, stainless steel and aluminum
3. GMAW (MIG) welding on steel
4. FCAW (flux-cored) welding on steel
5. Plus health and safety in welding and metal cutting

Schedule: 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday, over 8 weeks

You'll earn: an Aviron Attestation of Achievement. It's a strong fit if you want to start working as a welder or strengthen your skills for industrial and fabrication jobs.

Vehicle Mechanics (600 hours)

Our Vehicle Mechanics course prepares you for entry-level roles in dealerships, garages and service centers. Across 9 modules, you'll learn:

1. Workshop safety and vehicle operation
2. Hand and power tools
3. Electrical and electronic systems (batteries, alternators, starters)
4. Brakes, suspension and steering
5. Engines, lubrication, transmissions and clutches
6. Periodic maintenance and vehicle inspection

Start dates: new students start every month.

You'll earn: an Attestation of Achievement recognized by the CPA (Joint Committee of the Automotive Services Industry of the Montreal Region). Graduates work as mechanic helpers, junior technicians, diagnostic assistants, and automotive service attendants.

Why learn a trade while you work in Canada?

Skilled trades like welding and auto mechanics are hands-on, practical careers, and the skills carry over from one employer and province to another. A short, focused course lets you:

1. Gain practical, job-ready skills in weeks, not years
2. Earn an attestation you can show to employers
3. Explore a trade before committing to a longer program, such as a DEP (Diploma of Vocational Studies)
4. Keep working while you train, depending on your schedule and your employer

How to get started

1. Check your work permit. Make sure it's valid for the whole length of the course.
2. Choose your course. Compare General Welding and Vehicle Mechanics.
3. See upcoming start dates on our start dates page.
4. Talk to our admissions team. Call 514 739-3010 or visit us at 5460 Royalmount Avenue, Town of Mount Royal. We'll help you pick the right course and schedule. Flexible financing options, including instalment plans, are available for qualifying students.

This article is for general information only and isn't immigration advice. Aviron Technical Institute is not affiliated with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Policies can change, so always check the official IRCC page or speak with a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer about your situation.