PGWP Canada 2025: How to Choose an Eligible Study Program and Secure Your Post-Graduation Work Permit

For international students in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a vital pathway to gain valuable work experience after completing their studies. However, as of July 2025, the rules for eligibility have become stricter, particularly for students enrolled in non-degree programs. Understanding these requirements is essential to ensure your study program qualifies for a PGWP.

Historically, students who completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) were eligible for a PGWP, provided they met specific criteria. However, recent changes introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have added a new layer of complexity. These changes focus on the field of study, especially for those not pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.

As of November 1, 2024, non-degree programs such as diplomas, certificates, and other post-secondary non-degree programs must align with Canada’s labor market needs to qualify for a PGWP. This means students in these programs must ensure their field of study is on IRCC’s list of eligible fields, which are tied to occupations experiencing long-term labor shortages.

On June 25, 2025, IRCC updated this list, adding 119 new fields in high-demand sectors like healthcare, social services, trades, and education. At the same time, 178 fields were removed because they no longer aligned with occupations in shortage. The total number of eligible fields now stands at 920.

For students currently enrolled or planning to enroll in a non-degree program, verifying their program’s eligibility is crucial. This involves checking the program’s CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) code against IRCC’s updated list. Students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, are still eligible if their program was on the list at the time of their application, even if the field has since been removed.

There are exceptions for students who submitted their study permit applications between June 25, 2025, and July 4, 2025. If their program’s field was removed and then restored during this period, they will still maintain PGWP eligibility. However, it’s important to check the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and to keep documentation of when the study permit application was submitted.

These changes underscore the importance of careful planning and research before enrolling in a program. Ensuring both your institution and your program meet the necessary requirements is the first step toward securing a PGWP and the work experience it provides.

While the field of study requirements have tightened for non-degree programs, the general eligibility criteria for the PGWP remain critical for all students. To qualify, you must complete a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that is at least 8 months long, or 900 hours for Quebec-based programs. This ensures that the program is substantial enough to provide meaningful skills and knowledge.

Another key requirement is maintaining full-time student status during every semester of your studies, except for your final semester, where part-time studies are permitted. This rule emphasizes the importance of consistent academic engagement throughout the program. Additionally, you must apply for your PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation that you completed your program. This timeframe is strict, so it’s essential to stay organized and aware of your graduation date.

Your study permit must also be valid at some point during the 180-day period after graduation and before you submit your PGWP application. This ensures that you maintain your legal status in Canada while transitioning from student to worker. Keeping track of your permit’s validity and applying on time is crucial to avoid complications.

For students in non-degree programs, the specific rules about field of study add another layer of complexity. Since November 1, 2024, these programs must align with Canada’s labor market needs, focusing on fields tied to long-term labor shortages. The eligible fields are chosen based on their connection to jobs prioritized by the Express Entry system, ensuring that the PGWP aligns with the country’s economic goals.

As of June 25, 2025, the list of eligible fields has been updated to reflect current labor market demands. While 119 new fields were added in key sectors such as healthcare, social services, trades, and education, 178 fields were removed because they no longer align with occupations in shortage. This brings the total number of eligible fields to 920, emphasizing the dynamic nature of Canada’s labor market.

To confirm eligibility, students must check their program’s CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) code against the most recent list provided by IRCC. This step is vital for non-degree students, as it directly impacts their ability to apply for a PGWP. However, students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, are still eligible if their program was listed as eligible at the time of their application, even if the field has since been removed.

There are also exceptions for students who submitted their study permit applications between June 25, 2025, and July 4, 2025. If their program’s field was removed and then restored during this period, they will still maintain PGWP eligibility. However, it’s crucial to check the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and to keep documentation that proves when the study permit application was submitted.

In summary, securing a PGWP requires careful attention to both the general eligibility criteria and the specific rules about field of study. Before enrolling, verify that your program’s field of study remains on the eligible list if you are not pursuing a degree. Maintain full-time enrollment and ensure your study permit stays valid. Finally, apply within 180 days of program completion to ensure you can transition smoothly into the Canadian workforce.

Consulting the latest IRCC updates or using the official tools on their website is essential to confirm eligibility before and during your studies. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate the requirements successfully and make the most of your time in Canada.

Conclusion

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) remains a crucial pathway for international students in Canada to gain valuable work experience. However, the recent changes introduced by IRCC have made the eligibility criteria stricter, particularly for non-degree programs. Students must now ensure their field of study aligns with Canada’s labor market needs, as reflected in the updated list of eligible fields. Understanding these requirements is essential for securing a PGWP and successfully transitioning into the Canadian workforce. By staying informed about IRCC updates and verifying program eligibility, students can navigate these changes effectively and make the most of their time in Canada.

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