Canada Tightens Eligibility Rules for Post-Graduation Work Permits: What International Students Need to Know

Date: June 25, 2025

By: Study Buddy Abroad | Your Trusted Immigration Partner

What’s New in the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Rules?
To align international education with Canada’s long-term labour market needs, Immigration,
Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made major updates to the PGWP eligibility rules,
specifically for students in non-degree programs like diplomas, certificates, and other post-
secondary courses.
Here’s a simplified version of what’s changed and how it may affect international students applying to
study in Canada.

Who Is Affected?
 Students in non-degree programs (not pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD)
 Students who applied for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024

If you’re pursuing a degree program (Bachelor’s or higher), these changes do not affect you.
New PGWP Rules for Non-Degree Programs
To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, international students enrolled in non-
degree programs must now study in a field that is directly connected to jobs facing long-
term shortages in Canada.

These fields are linked to Canada’s Express Entry priorities, which focus on high-demand
sectors like:
 Health care
 Skilled trades
 Education
 Social services
 Technology
June 25, 2025: Latest Update
As of now, IRCC has revised the list of eligible fields of study to reflect 2025 Express Entry
priority occupations.

Key Changes:
 119 new fields of study were added, mostly in high-demand sectors like health care, skilled
trades, education, and social support.
 178 programs that are no longer tied to Canada’s labour shortage needs were removed
from the PGWP eligibility list.
Now, the total number of eligible fields of study is 920.

What About Current Students?
If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, you’re safe, your PGWP eligibility will
follow the older list that was in effect when you applied, even if your program has been removed
now.
This provides stability and clarity for current applicants.
What Should You Do Now?
If You’re Planning to Study in Canada:

 Check whether your program is on the updated list of eligible fields of study.
 Choose colleges or institutions offering programs in fields connected to Canada’s labour
market priorities.
 Consult a licensed immigration expert before finalizing your application.
If You’re an Education Consultant or Agent:

 Guide students carefully and stay updated on the PGWP program.
 Promote programs in healthcare, trades, technology, and education for 2025–26 intakes.

Where Can I Find the Official List?
Visit the IRCC website to view the full list of PGWP-eligible programs, organized under the
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system.

Contact Study Buddy Immigration – your expert partner in Canadian immigration and
education pathways.