PGWP 2025 Update: New Eligible Programs for Canada PR Path

Canada Updates PGWP Eligibility: What International Students Need to Know in 2025

Big news for international students planning to study in Canada! As of June 25, 2025, the Canadian government has rolled out significant updates to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. These changes are meant to better align with Canada’s evolving labour market needs — and if you’re eyeing a study permit or a future in Canada, you’ll want to understand what this means for you.

Key Highlights

• 119 new fields of study are now eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
• 178 programs have been removed from PGWP eligibility
• Changes affect non-degree programs only (e.g., diplomas, certificates)
• Applies to students who apply for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024
• PGWP eligibility now closely mirrors Express Entry priority categories
• Language proficiency requirements remain in place based on level of study

Why Did Canada Change PGWP-Eligible Fields of Study?

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regularly reviews its immigration and study programs to ensure they reflect the country’s economic needs. With Canada facing labour shortages in specific sectors, the government is now prioritizing study programs that train students in in-demand fields — and filtering out those tied to occupations with lower demand.

This most recent update adds 119 new fields of study to the PGWP-approved list, while removing 178 programs that no longer align with labour market needs. The goal? To ensure that international graduates can smoothly transition into the workforce and help fill gaps in critical industries.

Who Is Affected by These PGWP Changes?

If you’re planning to study in Canada, these updates apply to you only if:

• You are enrolled in a non-degree program (such as a certificate or diploma, rather than a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree)
• You submit your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024

If your study permit application was submitted before June 25, 2025, you’re in luck — your eligibility is protected under the previous rules, even if your program has been removed from the approved list.

Which Fields of Study Were Added — and Which Were Removed?

Canada’s updated PGWP list now includes 920 eligible fields of study. These programs are closely tied to sectors facing persistent labour shortages, such as:

• Healthcare and social services — e.g., nursing, personal support work, social work
• Education — e.g., early childhood education, teaching assistance
• Skilled trades — e.g., plumbing, electrical work, welding

Meanwhile, 178 programs have been removed — generally those tied to industries where demand has decreased or where employment is more saturated.

If you’re unsure whether your chosen program makes the cut, it’s essential to check the up-to-date list of eligible programs. You can find it here.

PGWP and Express Entry: How Are They Connected?

It’s worth noting that the PGWP program and Canada’s Express Entry system are closely linked. Both are tools used by IRCC to respond to labour market demands, just at different stages of a newcomer’s journey.

While PGWP rules determine which international students can stay and work in Canada after graduation, Express Entry governs who gets invited to apply for permanent residence (PR). So, if a field of study becomes PGWP-eligible, it’s often a sign that related occupations may also be prioritized in Express Entry draws.

For example, earlier this year, IRCC updated its Express Entry categories to favour candidates with backgrounds in healthcare, tech, and trades — the same sectors now reflected in the revised PGWP list.

Other PGWP Requirements You’ll Still Need to Meet

Even if your program is on the approved list, there are still a few other PGWP eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet — and language proficiency is a big one. Here’s a breakdown of what’s expected based on your level of study:

Note: If you’re graduating from a PGWP-eligible flight school, you won’t need to meet the field of study requirement — though language proficiency is still required.

Planning to Stay in Canada After Graduation?

With these changes, it’s more important than ever to plan your studies strategically. Choosing a PGWP-eligible program not only helps you qualify for a work permit after you graduate — it could also improve your chances of eventually becoming a permanent resident through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program like the Manitoba PNP.

Whether you’re just starting your study permit application or you’re already in Canada, staying informed and getting the right advice can make a big difference.

Need Help Navigating Your Work Permit Options?

Book a consultation with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant who can help you assess your eligibility, choose the right program, and stay on track for permanent residency. Contact us today to learn more!