If you’re an international student planning to study in Canada in 2025, this is one update you can’t afford to miss. Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently announced major changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program and it could affect your study plans.

What’s new? Starting from June 25, 2025, not all programs will lead to PGWP anymore, especially non-degree programs like diplomas, certificates, and post-grad certificates. But don’t panic! This change doesn’t mean the door is closed; it just means you need to choose your program more strategically than ever.

Let’s break it all down so you can stay ahead, make informed choices, and still secure a path to work and settle in Canada after your studies.

What Changed in PGWP Eligibility?

Before now, most full-time programs from public colleges, whether degree or diploma, led to a PGWP. But now, Canada is taking a more focused approach by supporting only those non-degree programs that align with the country’s labour shortages.

This means that if you plan to study for a certificate, diploma, or postgraduate certificate, it must be in a field that’s in demand, especially in:

• Healthcare (e.g., nursing, personal support, pharmacy tech)
• Skilled Trades (e.g., plumbing, HVAC, industrial mechanics)
• Education (e.g., early childhood education, special needs education)

This targeted shift helps Canada fill essential jobs while making sure international graduates have a real shot at employment and immigration opportunities.

If you’re applying for a bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, nothing has changed. These programs remain PGWP-eligible, no matter the field of study.

So, if you’re aiming for a university degree, you can breathe easy; your PGWP path remains wide open.

Who Is Affected by These Changes?

To avoid confusion, let’s make the timeline super clear:

• • If you applied for your study permit before November 1, 2024, you’re good! The new rule won’t affect you, even if your program is no longer on the PGWP-eligible list.
• If you apply on or after November 1, 2024, your program must now fall under the approved list of high-demand fields to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

This means students and agents need to be extra cautious when selecting programs going forward. What was PGWP-eligible last year might not be anymore.

What Fields Were Added and Removed?

The IRCC evaluated job market demands and updated the program list accordingly. Here’s what they found:

• 119 fields added to the eligible list, primarily in healthcare, education, and skilled trades
• 178 fields removed, many of which are in general business, marketing, hospitality, and creative arts

Let’s quickly visit the highlights from the program shift:

To explore all 119 added and 178 removed programs, organized by sector, CIP code, and title, check the official IRCC list here. This resource helps you make informed choices based on the most current study-to-work eligibility updates.

Tip: If your intended program appears on the removed list, it’s time to revisit your plans and consider a career path with greater long-term prospects and immigration value.

What This Means for Current and Future Students

For students who already submitted their study permit applications before June 25, 2025, your eligibility will be based on the rules that were in place at the time of your application.

This is a huge relief for many students already in the process or those who have secured their Letter of Acceptance. You’ll still be eligible for PGWP even if your program is now off the approved list.

So, don’t worry, you won’t be caught in the middle of policy changes.

If you’re just starting your journey or applying after November 2024, this is the perfect time to:

• Research fields that are in high demand.
• Switch to a program that leads to real career and immigration opportunities.
• Consult with certified education advisors before making final decisions.
• Cross-check the PGWP-eligible field list as part of your school and course selection process.

A well-informed choice today can save you from regret and visa stress tomorrow.

Why These Changes Were Made

Let’s face it, Canada’s economy is changing fast. With an ageing population, rising healthcare needs, and growing gaps in skilled trades, the country needs more workers in essential sectors and it needs them now.

The new PGWP rules are part of a larger national strategy to:

• Close the labour gap in high-demand sectors like healthcare, construction, and early education.
• Ensure international students are not just studying in Canada but also contributing meaningfully to the country’s economy after graduation.
• Improve immigration outcomes by helping graduates find work faster and qualify for permanent residency (PR).

Rather than allow students to invest time and money in programs that don’t align with job opportunities, the government wants to guide students toward more rewarding and employable fields.

So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Why can’t I just study anything I want?” the short answer is: Canada wants your education to work for you and the economy at the same time.

What You Should Do Now

This change might feel like a limitation, but it’s actually a chance to make smarter, future-focused decisions.

Here’s what you can do:

• Re-evaluate your chosen program if your study permit hasn’t been submitted yet.
• Think long-term: What jobs will be in demand in 3-5 years when you graduate?
• Explore skilled trades and healthcare roles; they’re more valuable than ever.
• Stay flexible: It’s okay to change course if it means better job security and PGWP eligibility.

If you’re unsure, don’t guess. This is the time to consult a trusted study abroad expert who understands the latest immigration policies.

For Agents & Counselors: Stay Ahead of the Curve

If you work with international students, your role is more important than ever. Here’s how to support them better:

• Always double-check PGWP eligibility before recommending a program.
• Communicate the changes clearly; many students still haven’t heard about this.
• Help students shift focus to sectors where they can work, grow, and qualify for PR.

The goal is no longer just to “study in Canada” but to study smartly and work legally after graduation.

Conclusion

The recent update to Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) policy may feel like a curveball, but it’s really a compass. Instead of closing opportunities, Canada is simply guiding international students toward fields where their skills are truly needed.

If you’re planning to study in Canada or advising someone who wants to study in Canada, this is the moment to pause, reassess, and make an informed decision. Choose a path that offers career growth, immigration potential, and long-term security.

Don’t wait until it’s too late or risk being ineligible for a PGWP after investing so much time and money. There are still hundreds of viable programs that meet the new requirements, and with the right guidance, your Canadian dream is still very much alive.

Do you need help choosing a PGWP-eligible program or changing your application strategy?
Reach out today to speak with our licensed education consultant or request a personalized course guide. Let’s help you take the next best step strategically and confidently.

FAQs About the New PGWP Changes in 2025

1. What is PGWP and why is it important?
   The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their program. It’s often the first step toward gaining Canadian work experience and qualifying for permanent residency.

• Who is affected by the June 25, 2025 PGWP changes?
  Only students in non-degree programs (certificates, diplomas, post-grad certificates) who applied for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024. Degree students are not affected.

• Can I still apply for PGWP if my program is removed from the list but I applied early?
  Yes. If you submitted your study permit application before June 25, 2025, you remain eligible for PGWP based on the rules at that time, even if your program was later removed.

• What programs are now considered PGWP-eligible?
  Programs in healthcare, education, and skilled trades are prioritized. This includes nursing, pharmacy tech, early childhood education, plumbing, industrial mechanics, and more.

• What should I do if my chosen program is no longer eligible?
  You can either switch to a different eligible program or consider enrolling in a degree program. Consulting a licensed education agent can help you make the right switch without losing valuable time.