Major Overhaul to Post-Graduation Work Permit Program Takes Effect
In a major shift impacting thousands of international students, the Government of Canada has officially updated the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Effective immediately, a newly revised list defines which non-degree fields of study qualify for a PGWP, reflecting Canada’s efforts to align immigration pathways with national labor market needs.
The update introduces 119 new eligible study programs, while simultaneously removing 178 fields that are no longer considered critical to the country’s workforce priorities. These changes, aimed at strengthening Canada’s long-term immigration and employment strategies, particularly affect students enrolled in college diplomas, certificates, and other non-degree programs.
Table of Contents
What Is the PGWP and Why the Update?
The PGWP allows international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to gain open work permits for up to three years, depending on the length of their program. This permit serves as a key bridge between studies and permanent residency, particularly through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
The federal government says the overhaul is necessary to ensure that international students are being prepared for employment in industries facing critical shortages, such as health care, education, skilled trades, and STEM fields.
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Key Changes to PGWP Eligibility in 2025
119 New Fields Added
To respond to current economic demands, the following sectors now include newly eligible fields of study:
- Health Care and Social Services: Including nursing, personal support work, medical lab technology, and social work.
- Education: Programs like early childhood education and classroom support.
- Skilled Trades: Covering carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and heavy equipment operation.
- STEM Disciplines: Technical programs in data analytics, environmental sciences, AI, and information technology.
178 Fields Removed
Fields of study considered unrelated to labor market demand—such as generalized arts, niche media, and some business programs—have been removed from the list. Students in these fields are no longer eligible for PGWP unless they applied for their study permit before June 25, 2025.
What Stays the Same: Total Eligible Programs and Exemptions
Following the adjustments, 929 fields of study now qualify for the PGWP. The full breakdown is based on the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) framework and is available through Canada’s official immigration website.
Grandfathering for Current Students
Students who already applied for a study permit prior to June 25, 2025, are grandfathered in under the rules in effect at that time—even if their program has since been removed from the list.
Exemptions from the New Criteria
Not all students are impacted by the updated list. PGWP eligibility remains unchanged for the following groups:
- Students who submitted a PGWP application before November 1, 2024
- Graduates of flight schools recognized by Transport Canada
- Students completing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees
- Anyone who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024
These exemptions ensure that those pursuing degree-level education or previously enrolled programs retain access to post-graduation work opportunities.
How to Check If Your Program Is Still Eligible
To find out if your current or intended program qualifies for PGWP under the new criteria:
- Visit the official IRCC website
- Search using the CIP code assigned to your program
- Review the list of programs eligible as of June 25, 2025
Educational institutions are also expected to update their guidance and program descriptions to reflect the new PGWP status of their offerings.
Preparing for Your PGWP Application
If you’re planning to apply for a PGWP under the updated system:
- Ensure your program is still on the eligibility list
- Keep documentation of your study permit application date
- Work with your institution’s international office or a regulated immigration consultant
This proactive approach is especially critical for students in short-term or vocational programs, as new limitations could affect work opportunities post-graduation.
A Shift Toward Targeted Immigration
This overhaul of the PGWP is part of Canada’s broader push to connect international education with economic priorities. With labor shortages in fields like health care, trades, and tech projected to increase over the next decade, this update reflects a growing trend: immigration is being fine-tuned to meet workforce needs.
For international students considering Canada, choosing the right program now means more than academic alignment—it directly impacts your ability to stay, work, and eventually settle in the country.
Stay informed, check your program’s eligibility, and plan ahead.
