Canada Updates Field of Study Requirements for Post-Graduation Work Permits

Nationwide Visas
[Published 30 Jun, 2025 | 04:35 AM]
About Author - 4 min read
580

Canada has finally changed its eligibility conditions regarding the Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) under the International Student Program, which has taken an important turn concerning international students seeking non-degree courses. Reforms are aimed at aligning academic coursework with industries facing chronic labor shortages and are directly connected to the 2025 Express Entry priorities.

The new policy has changed to make it mandatory that the non-degree students (diplomas and certificates included) take a course in one of the lines of study that are approved alongside high-demand professions. Such revisions are meant to ascertain that international graduates will be in a better position to integrate adequately into the Canadian workforce.

This development is a critical update in Canada Immigration News, especially for those applying for a Canada Study Visa to stay and work in the country post-graduation.

Book a Free Consultation

What Has Changed?

The following is what the federal government has updated as of June 25, 2025:

• 119 new education areas were created, such as healthcare, social services, education, and skilled trades.

• 178 program were eliminated; fields that were out of demand in the labour market were eliminated.

• There are currently 920 total eligible programs, all have occupations that are a priority under the Canada Express Entry system.

The rule applies to international students who submitted an application for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024. It is an extension of initiatives declared in the previous year to reinforce the association of international education with the long-term immigration objectives in Canada.

Who Gets Affected?

Students who are not undertaking degrees, including diplomas, certificates, or associate degrees, are mainly affected by this update. Degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral levels are not affected by this rule and remain eligible for the Canada Work Permit through PGWP.

The Importance of Immigration Aspirants

Canada has long been a top destination for international education, and many students view the Post-Graduation Work Permit as a stepping stone toward permanent residency through programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

By harmonizing eligibility to PGWP with Canadian economic and labour demands, the government hopes to make sure that international students receive valuable work experience in areas beneficial to them as well as the Canadian economy.

This also supports broader goals within the Canada Immigration strategy targeting talent for sectors that face persistent shortages, such as nursing, teaching, early childhood care, skilled trades, and tech services.

What to Do?

In case you are considering studying in Canada and wish to receive a PGWP after obtaining your degree, the following are your steps:

• Confirm your area of study – Before filling out the study permit, you have to ensure that your program of choice is on the list of the 920 eligible programs by the government.

• Select a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) - This implies that the college or university providing your course is allowed to have international students.

• Apply early-Program lists change every year according to the available data in the labor market; therefore, applying a few weeks earlier will improve your chances.

• Immigration planning – Think about the best way your education fits into one of the Canadian immigration routes, like the Express Entry and the PNP. There are areas that are in high demand, and the PR processing in those fields is usually quicker.

The Impact of This on the Future

Canada is still developing an increasingly selective, data-driven, and outcome-based immigration regime. These updates on PGWP eligibility represent a transition on the part of being willing to accommodate students to a strategic preparation in developing long-term integration.

For policymakers, this is a step toward creating a smarter and more sustainable Canada Immigration framework. For international students, it’s a reminder to approach study decisions with a long-term perspective, especially those interested in transitioning from a Canadian study visa to permanent residency.

Conclusion

The full and current information on the list of eligible programs for the PGWP according to the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) can be accessed on the official site of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Keeping up and planning is a very necessary way to ensure your future in Canada.