Canada’s New List Of PGWP Eligible Fields Of Study Effective June 2025
In a significant move to align its immigration policies with the nation’s labour market demands, Canada has introduced a revised list of eligible fields of study for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. These changes will take effect on June 25, 2025, impacting international students who aspire to work in Canada after completing their studies.
Understanding the PGWP Program
The PGWP allows international students who have completed specific educational programs in Canada to gain temporary work experience in the country. This opportunity not only enhances their professional skills but also serves as a pathway to permanent residency.
Key Changes to PGWP Eligibility
The updated list reflects a strategic shift towards addressing Canada’s labour shortages. Here are the primary modifications:
- Addition of 119 New Fields: Focus areas include healthcare, education, and skilled trades, such as nursing and electrical work.
- Removal of 178 Fields: Programs in sectors like agriculture and transportation have been excluded due to reduced demand.
Transitional Provisions
Students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, will retain their PGWP eligibility, even if their field of study is removed from the new list. This provision ensures a smooth transition for current applicants.
For more details, visit the official source.
Specific Field Changes
Newly Added Fields
Canada has introduced 119 new fields of study to address labour shortages in high-demand sectors:
- Health Care and Social Services: Includes nursing, medical laboratory technology, and social work.
- Education: Features early childhood education and teaching assistant programs.
- Skilled Trades: Encompasses carpentry, electrical work, and plumbing.
Fields Removed
A total of 178 fields have been removed due to reduced demand:
- Transport Programs: All transport-related fields are no longer eligible.
- Agriculture and Agri-Food: Most programs in this sector have been excluded, with only one remaining eligible.
Eligibility by Application Date
Before June 25, 2025
Students who applied before this date retain eligibility under the previous list, even if their field was removed.
On or After June 25, 2025
Applicants must ensure their program is within the new list of 920 eligible fields.
Additional Requirements
Eligibility now ties diploma and certificate levels to in-demand professions using CIP and NOC codes. Language requirements, effective November 1, 2024, apply to all study levels.
How to Check Eligibility
The official government website offers a searchable table of eligible CIP codes as of June 25, 2025. Visit the official source for details.
Summary Table: Fields of Study and PGWP Eligibility
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Added Fields | 119 (Health, Education, Trades) |
| Removed Fields | 178 (Transport, Agriculture & Agri-food) |
| Total Eligible Fields | 920 |
| Transition Rule | Pre-June 25, 2025 applications protected |
| Key Affected Sectors | Health, Education, Skilled Trades |
| Ineligible Sectors | Most Agriculture, All Transport |
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Conclusion
Canada’s revised list of eligible fields of study for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, effective June 25, 2025, reflects the country’s strategic approach to addressing labour market demands. With 119 new fields added in high-demand sectors like healthcare, education, and skilled trades, and 178 fields removed due to reduced demand, the changes aim to align international students’ skills with Canada’s workforce needs. Students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, will retain their PGWP eligibility under the previous list, ensuring a smooth transition. The updated list now includes 920 eligible fields, and applicants are encouraged to verify their program’s eligibility using the official government resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The PGWP allows international students who have completed specific educational programs in Canada to gain temporary work experience in the country, which can also serve as a pathway to permanent residency.
How do the changes to PGWP eligibility affect me?
If you applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, you retain eligibility under the previous list. If you apply on or after June 25, 2025, your program must be within the new list of 920 eligible fields.
How can I check if my field of study is eligible for PGWP?
You can check the official government website, which provides a searchable table of eligible CIP codes effective June 25, 2025.
Why did Canada make these changes to PGWP eligibility?
The changes aim to align PGWP eligibility with Canada’s labour market needs, addressing shortages in high-demand sectors like healthcare, education, and skilled trades.
Are there any transition provisions for current students?
Yes, students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, will retain their PGWP eligibility, even if their field of study was removed from the new list.
How many fields of study are now eligible for PGWP?
As of June 25, 2025, there are 920 eligible fields of study for the PGWP program.
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