The Government of Canada has recently updated which types of study programs will let international graduates apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
OnJune 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced changes to better match the country’s job market needs for the coming years. This move is part of Canada’s immigration plans and priorities for 2025–2026.
According to Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, immigration helps grow the Canadian economy. However, she also said the government will work to keep immigration levels sustainable so that communities and public services can cope well.
“Many newcomers come to Canada to build better lives and contribute to our society. Immigration has become an economic strength for our country, and we have a duty to manage it responsibly,” said Diab.
If you’re planning to study in Canada on a student visa, these new rules will determine whether your chosen program will make you eligible for a work permit after graduation.
What Changed?
Starting November 1, 2024, the changes will apply to all new study permit applications. If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, you’ll still be eligible for a PGWP as long as your program was on the approved list at the time you applied—even if it later gets removed.
Here’s what’s new:
- 119 new fields of study have been added to the PGWP-eligible list.
- 178 fields have been removed because they no longer match the current labour shortages.
- The total number of eligible study fields for 2025 is 920.
One of the biggest updates is that most programs in Transport have been taken off the list. In Agriculture, only the Agri-food programs remain eligible.
Most of the newly approved programs are in sectors where Canada needs more skilled workers. These include:
- Healthcare and social services
- Education and teacher training
- Skilled trades
This is also the first time the government has added education-focused programs—like teacher training—to the PGWP-eligible list.
You can see the official list of eligible programs on the Government of Canada website.
Programs No Longer Eligible
If you plan to study Agriculture, only Agri-food programs now qualify for a PGWP. Many other fields, including certain STEM areas such as environmental studies, water management, and natural resources, have also been removed from eligibility.
- Some examples of new eligible education programs are:
- French language and teacher education
- Biology and chemistry teacher education
- Computer science teacher education
- Drama and dance education
Keep in mind that these changes mostly affect non-degree programs—programs that don’t lead to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
For more details about how study permits work in Canada, visit the official study permit page.
Language Requirements
Regardless of which program you choose, you’ll still need to meet Canada’s language proficiency requirements. These depend on your level of study and are necessary for getting a work permit.
However, graduates from PGWP-eligible flight schools do not have to meet the same field of study requirements.
A Path to Permanent Residence
While the PGWP helps international students gain Canadian work experience, there are also other ways to stay in Canada long-term. For example, the Express Entry system allows qualified candidates to apply for permanent residence based on their work experience and skills.
You can learn more about Express Entry here: Canada.ca Express Entry.
Tip: Before you apply for Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit, always check the latest list of eligible programs and requirements on the official IRCC website. This will help you plan your studies and work options in Canada with confidence.
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