Massive Update to Canada’s PGWP Eligibility — Check the New 2025 List Before It’s Too Late

What Happened?

Canada has made a major change to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility rules that could significantly affect current and future international students. As of June 25, 2025, a new list of eligible study fields has been released, aligned with the country’s 2025 Express Entry labour market priorities.

The updated list determines which non-degree programs like diplomas and certificates qualify international students for a PGWP. Programs must now relate directly to sectors facing long-term labour shortages in Canada.

This change is part of a broader effort to streamline Canada’s International Student Program, ensuring it better supports both students and the national economy.

Why the Change Matters

The PGWP is a crucial pathway for international students looking to gain Canadian work experience after graduation. That experience often supports applications for permanent residence through systems like Express Entry.

But this opportunity is no longer guaranteed for all students. The new rules mean:

Not every program will make you eligible for a PGWP.
Eligibility now depends on your program’s link to in-demand occupations.
Students in fields removed from the list might no longer qualify even after completing their studies if they applied for a study permit after November 1, 2024.

This update could affect thousands of students already in Canada or planning to arrive soon. Choosing the right program has become more important than ever.

How the New Rules Work

Key Dates to Remember

November 1, 2024: Students who applied for a study permit on or after this date must follow the new eligibility rules.
June 25, 2025: The updated list of eligible programs took effect.

Summary of Changes

119 new fields of study were added to the PGWP eligibility list. These include areas tied to health care, education, trades, and social services.
178 fields of study were removed because they are no longer linked to jobs with long-term shortages.
There are now 920 fields in total that qualify under the revised list.

If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, you’re still covered by the list that was in place at the time even if your field has since been removed.

Who Is Affected?

These updates mainly affect students enrolled in non-degree programs – programs that are not bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees. If your study plan involves a diploma or certificate, your eligibility for a PGWP now hinges on whether your program is still listed.

For degree programs, the changes don’t apply in the same way, and graduates generally remain eligible for a PGWP.

Which Programs Were Added or Removed?

The full list is categorized under the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system and can be found on the official immigration website. While the government hasn’t published a detailed breakdown in the announcement, trends suggest that added programs fall into areas such as:

Practical nursing and personal support work
Early childhood education
Skilled trades (e.g., plumbing, electrical, welding)
Social and community service work
Teacher training programs

Programs with fewer employment pathways or weaker ties to current workforce needs are among those removed.

What Should Students Do Now?

1. Verify Your Program

Whether you’re applying to study in Canada or are already enrolled, check if your field of study remains on the eligible PGWP list. This step is critical if your long-term goal includes staying in Canada after graduation.

2. Act Before It’s Too Late

Students currently overseas planning to apply for a study permit should confirm eligibility before submission. Starting a program that’s no longer supported under PGWP rules may leave you without a work option upon graduation.

3. Seek Professional Advice

Navigating changes in immigration policies especially when they involve timelines and education can be complex. While this update focuses on Canada, many students also explore work or study options in the U.S. For those with cross-border plans, consulting with a U.S. immigration lawyer in Vancouver can provide clarity on coordinating education with future U.S. immigration opportunities.

Planning Ahead Is More Important Than Ever

This PGWP update isn’t just a policy shift it’s a signal that Canada is becoming more targeted in who gets access to post-study work opportunities. Education must now directly align with workforce needs. For students, that means every decision from program selection to application timing can affect long-term goals.

Don’t wait until you’ve completed a program to find out whether you’re eligible for a work permit. By staying informed, choosing the right study path, and seeking guidance when needed, you can still move forward with confidence.

Massive Update to Canada’s PGWP Eligibility — Check the New 2025 List Before It’s Too Late