Canada has just introduced significant PGWP changes that will directly impact thousands of international students. On June 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) officially updated the list of academic programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), a work permit that allows international graduates to work in Canada after completing their studies.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, these PGWP changes could determine whether you’re allowed to stay and work after graduation.
What is PGWP?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international students who have completed an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to work in the country for up to three years after graduation. It’s a vital pathway for gaining Canadian work experience, which is often required for permanent residency (PR) through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry. PGWP is non-renewable, so choosing an eligible program is essential for students planning to stay and work in Canada after their studies.
Read more about PGWP changes in 2025:
- What is a post graduation work permit (PGWP)? How to obtain one?
- PGWP eligible colleges and DLI list in Canada: What international students need to know in 2025
What Are the New PGWP Changes?
-
119 New Programs Added
The updated PGWP list reflects Canada’s efforts to address long-term labor shortages. New eligible programs now focus on:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Social Services
- Skilled Trades
-
178 Programs Removed
Some programs that used to be eligible for PGWP are no longer considered relevant to Canada’s workforce needs. These include:
- Agri-food: Almost all programs removed, except Meat Cutting / Meat Cutter
- Transportation and Logistics: Entirely removed, including Supply Chain Management
- STEM (select programs): Removed examples include Data Analytics, Digital Media & Communication
After the latest PGWP changes, there are now 920 programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Which Fields Are Affected Most by the PGWP Changes?
- Education: No cuts—this field even gained new eligible programs.
- Healthcare: A few programs removed, but additions include Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine.
- Trades: Several hands-on training programs added, like Cabinetmaking and Millwork.
- STEM: Mixed impact.
Who Is Affected by These PGWP Changes?
These new rules apply only to students who submit their Study Permit applications on or after June 25, 2025. If your program has been removed from the eligibility list and you apply after this date, you will no longer qualify for a PGWP.
However:
- If you applied before June 25, 2025, your eligibility is still based on the old list.
- Students enrolled in Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs are not affected by the recent PGWP changes.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2025 or later, it’s crucial to choose your program based on the updated PGWP eligibility list. The latest PGWP changes mean that a poor program choice could cost you the right to work in Canada after graduation.
Action steps:
- Double-check if your desired program is still PGWP-eligible
- Focus on high-demand fields like healthcare, education, and trades
- Speak with an immigration consultant like RCIC-IRB Andy Luu to map out a safe and strategic study – immigrate plan
Conclusion:
These PGWP changes signal a stronger alignment between Canada’s immigration system and its labor market goals. While the update may limit options in some fields, it also opens new doors in sectors with higher demand and long-term settlement opportunities.
Need help navigating PGWP eligibility?
The expert team at Yes Study is here to help you stay on the right path. Contact us for a free consultation on your study plans and PGWP options.
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