Canada Expands Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility with 120 New Fields of Study
In a significant move to align its immigration policies with labor market demands, Canada has updated its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria. As of June 25, 2025, 120 new fields of study qualify international graduates for this permit, while 178 fields have been removed.
This update specifically affects international students in non-degree programs, such as diplomas and certificates. Degree programs remain unaffected, ensuring continued opportunities for those pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees.
Why the Change?
The revision aims to address labor shortages in key sectors like healthcare, education, and trades. By focusing on these areas, Canada seeks to enhance the employability of international graduates, facilitating their path to permanent residency.
Who Is Impacted?
Students who applied for their study permit on or after November 1, 2024, and those applying for PGWP from June 25, 2025, are subject to the new rules. A grandfather clause protects those who applied before June 25, 2025, maintaining their eligibility.
This update underscores Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled workers and supporting its economic growth through strategic immigration policies.
Canada’s PGWP Reform: A Detailed Breakdown
Key Updates to the PGWP Program
The revised list now includes 920 eligible fields of study, with 119 new additions and 178 removals. This adjustment aims to better align the PGWP with Canada’s current labor market needs, focusing on sectors like healthcare, education, and trades.
Who Is Affected by These Changes?
International students who applied for their study permit on or after November 1, 2024, and those applying for PGWP from June 25, 2025, are subject to the new rules. A grandfather clause protects students who applied before June 25, 2025, maintaining their eligibility under the previous criteria.
Why These Changes Were Necessary
The reform addresses labor shortages in key sectors by adding fields in healthcare, education, and trades, while removing fields like parts of agriculture and agri-food that no longer experience shortages. This strategic shift aims to enhance the employability of international graduates, facilitating their path to permanent residency.
Details of Eligible Fields
The eligible fields are categorized into major economic sectors such as agriculture, education, health, trades, and STEM. This categorization ensures that graduates can contribute directly to crucial sectors of the Canadian economy. Prospective students are advised to verify their program’s eligibility to secure post-graduation work opportunities.
Summary of Key Changes
| Category | Previous Policy | New Policy (as of June 25, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible fields | Broad; less targeted | 920 fields selected for labor market needs |
| Newly eligible fields | Not specified | 119 new fields, especially in health, trades, and education |
| Removed fields | Not specified | 178 fields removed, including some from agriculture |
| Degree programs affected? | No (all degree programs eligible) | Still not affected |
| Grandfathering | N/A | Yes, for students who applied before June 25, 2025 |
| Effective for | All non-degree students | Non-degree students who applied on/after November 1, 2024 |
Implications for International Students
International students should carefully review the updated list of PGWP-eligible programs when selecting non-degree options. This strategic choice increases their chances of securing skilled employment and potentially qualifying for permanent residency through pathways like Express Entry.
A Closer Look at the Eligibility Criteria
The revised policy ensures that international graduates in non-degree programs can directly contribute to Canada’s economic growth. By focusing on high-demand sectors, the government aims to create a more streamlined process for skilled workers to enter the Canadian job market and transition to permanent residency.
Conclusion
Canada’s PGWP reform is a strategic move to address labor market needs and support economic growth. International students must align their educational choices with the new eligibility criteria to maximize their opportunities for employment and residency in Canada.
Conclusion
Canada’s expansion of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility to include 120 new fields of study is a proactive step to address labor market demands and support economic growth. By focusing on high-demand sectors such as healthcare, education, and trades, the government aims to enhance the employability of international graduates. This reform ensures that non-degree programs align with the country’s workforce needs, providing students with clearer pathways to employment and permanent residency. International students are encouraged to carefully review the updated eligibility criteria when choosing their programs to maximize their opportunities in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What fields of study have been added to the PGWP eligibility list?
The updated list includes 119 new fields, particularly in healthcare, education, and trades, to address labor shortages in these sectors.
How can I check if my program is eligible for PGWP?
You can verify your program’s eligibility by reviewing the updated list of 920 eligible fields of study, categorized by economic sectors such as healthcare, education, trades, and STEM.
What is the grandfather clause, and how does it affect me?
The grandfather clause protects students who applied for their study permit before June 25, 2025, allowing them to maintain eligibility under the previous criteria.
How do these changes affect current international students?
Students who applied for their study permit on or after November 1, 2024, and those applying for PGWP from June 25, 2025, are subject to the new rules. Degree programs remain unaffected.
What are the benefits of these changes for international students?
The reforms improve alignment with labor market needs, increasing the likelihood of securing skilled employment and potentially qualifying for permanent residency through pathways like Express Entry.
