Crucial Updates to Canadian PGWP Field of Study Eligibility Announced
- The Government of Canada has updated the list of eligible fields of study for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for non-degree programs.
- EffectiveJune 25, 2025, 119 new fields of study in key sectors like healthcare, education, and trades were added, while 178 fields no longer linked to long-term labour shortages were removed.
- Important grandfathering clauses apply to students who submitted study permit applications beforeJune 25, 2025, and for a specific period betweenJune 25 and July 4, 2025.
Ottawa, Canada – Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced significant changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria for international students in non-degree programs. This update, effectiveJune 25, 2025, specifically targets thePGWP field of study eligibility, aligning it more closely with Canada's evolving labour market needs and Express Entry priorities.
Who is Affected by These PGWP Eligibility Changes?
These recent adjustments primarily impact a specific group of international students seeking a Post-Graduation Work Permit:
- Non-Degree Program Students:The updated field of study requirement applies to international students enrolled in programs other than bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees.
- Study Permit Application Date:This rule applies to students who applied for a study permit on or afterNovember 1, 2024.
Important Grandfathering Provisions:
IRCC has put in place specific provisions to protect students who may have been impacted by the changes:
- Applications Before June 25, 2025:If you applied for your study permit beforeJune 25, 2025, you will still be eligible for a PGWP if your field of study was on the eligible list at the time of your study permit application, even if it has since been removed.
- Applications Between June 25 and July 4, 2025:A special provision was announced onJuly 4, 2025. If you submitted your study permit application for a program that was removed onJune 25, 2025, but subsequently added back onJuly 4, 2025, you will still meet the field of study requirement upon graduation. These fields will remain eligible until the next list update in early 2026.
What Are the Changes to PGWP Eligible Programs?
The latest update to the eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes reflects Canada's current long-term labour shortages. As ofJune 25, 2025, the total number of eligible fields of study for a PGWP now stands at 920.
Overview of Updated PGWP Field of Study Eligibility
Newly Eligible Programs
IRCC has expanded the list of eligible fields to include programs that align with critical labour market demands. A total of119 new fields of studyhave been added to the list.
- These additions are primarily concentrated in key sectors experiencing long-term shortages, including:Health care and social servicesEducationTrades
Please Note:The specific CIP codes for these newly eligible programs are not provided in this announcement. Applicants are strongly advised to consult the official IRCC website for the complete and most up-to-date list of eligible fields of study to determine if their program qualifies. The official list is organized by the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system.
No Longer Eligible Programs
Conversely,178 fields of studythat are no longer linked to occupations in long-term labour shortages have been removed from the eligible list.
Please Note:Similar to the additions, the specific CIP codes for programs that are no longer eligible are not detailed in this announcement. It is imperative for all prospective and current students to verify their program's eligibility by checking the official IRCC website. This is especially important if your study permit application was submitted on or afterNovember 1, 2024.
Broader Context: The "Why" Behind These Changes
These adjustments to thePGWP field of study eligibilityare a direct outcome of Canada's broader International Student Program reforms, which began in 2024. The core objective is to ensure that international students who transition to permanent residency through the PGWP pathway are equipped with skills that directly address Canada's most pressing labour market needs.
The selection of eligible fields of study is closely linked to specific jobs identified as being in long-term shortage across the country. This strategic alignment also reflects the2025 Express Entry priorities, which often target candidates with experience in high-demand occupations. By prioritizing certain fields, Canada aims to maximize the economic contributions of international graduates and streamline their pathway to permanent residency in sectors where their skills are most needed.
Other Key Requirements for PGWP Applicants
While the field of study is a crucial component for non-degree program graduates, it is important to remember that it is one of several criteria for PGWP eligibility. Applicants must still meet all other standard PGWP requirements, which include, but are not limited to, successful completion of an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI) and maintaining full-time student status for the majority of their studies.
For a comprehensive understanding of all PGWP requirements, applicants should always refer to the official IRCC guidelines.
Conclusion
The recent updates to Canada'sPGWP field of study eligibilityunderscore the government's commitment to aligning international student pathways with national labour market demands. While 119 new fields have been added to support key sectors like healthcare, education, and trades, 178 fields have been removed to reflect changing economic needs. Students in non-degree programs who applied for a study permit on or afterNovember 1, 2024, are most directly affected. It is critical for all international students to verify their program's eligibility against the official CIP code list on the IRCC website to ensure they meet the requirements for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
For the most accurate and detailed information, including the full list of eligible fields of study, please visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website:.
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