Canada Updates Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility: 119 New Fields Added, 178 Removed

The Canadian government has announced major changes to the list of study programs that qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). These updates, released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on June 25, 2025, aim to better align education with Canada’s evolving labour market needs.

What’s New?

• 119 new fields of study have been added to the PGWP-eligible list.
• 178 fields of study have been removed.
• The total number of PGWP-eligible programs now stands at 920.
  
  

These changes affect international students enrolled in non-degree programs (programs that do not lead to a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree) who applied for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024.

Students who applied before June 25, 2025, are protected under a grandfather clause—they remain eligible for the PGWP based on the approved list at the time of their application.

Why These Changes Were Made

IRCC has updated the list based on current labour market demands. Programs related to occupations facing worker shortages have been added, while programs linked to fields with fewer job opportunities have been removed.

Notably:

• All Transport-related programs have been removed from PGWP eligibility.
• Only one Agriculture and Agri-Food program remains eligible.
• New fields include Education, which was previously not on the list at all.
  
  

Summary of Program Changes

Newly Added Fields of Study

Education:

• French language teacher education
• Biology, Chemistry, Computer, and Drama/Dance teacher education
  
  

Healthcare and Social Services:

• Veterinary medicine and technology
• Dentistry and dental sciences
  
  

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics):

• Architecture (including landscape and advanced architectural design)
  
  

Trades:

• Construction management
• CNC machinist technology
• Cabinetmaking and millwork
• Professional diver training
  
  

Removed Fields of Study

Agriculture:

• Crop production
• Agricultural management and machinery operation
  
  

Healthcare and Social Services:

• Multicultural and Indigenous education
• Student counselling services
  
  

STEM:

• Environmental studies and natural resources management
  
  

Trades:

• Solar energy technician
• Drywall installation
• Building/home inspection
  
  

Transport:

• Aircraft maintenance
• Marine repair
• Public transportation studies
  
  

To see the full updated list of PGWP-eligible programs, visit the official IRCC website.

How This Relates to Express Entry

PGWP-eligible fields of study are closely linked to Express Entry categories—Canada’s points-based system for permanent residence. Updates to PGWP eligibility often mirror changes in the occupations prioritized under Express Entry.

In February 2025, Express Entry categories were revised to focus on jobs in healthcare, trades, and education. These are now reflected in the PGWP program updates as well.

Language Requirements for PGWP

In addition to graduating from an eligible field of study, students must meet language proficiency requirements to qualify for a PGWP:

CLB/NCLC refers to the Canadian Language Benchmarks in English or French for reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Final Thoughts

These updates will significantly impact international students planning to study in Canada, especially those applying for diploma or certificate programs. It is essential for future students to verify whether their program of choice is PGWP-eligible before applying for a study permit.