5 Insights: Canada Overhauls Eligible Fields of Study for Post‑Graduation Work Permits

5 Key Takeaways: Canada Overhauls Eligible Fields of Study for Post‑Graduation Work Permits

In a landmark policy update announced June 25, 2025, IRCC significantly amended the eligible programs for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility—an essential pivot in Canada immigration aimed at aligning temporary work opportunities with labour-market needs. This timely overhaul can meaningfully affect international students and PGWP holders, and Kansas Overseas is here to guide you with precision and clarity.

1. Major Policy Shift: 119 Programs Added, 178 Removed

IRCC has reshaped the eligibility landscape for non-degree program graduates applying on or after November 1, 2024. Specifically:

• 119 new programs related to healthcare, social services, education, trades have been added to the PGWP-eligible list.
• 178 programs, especially in transport, agriculture, and some STEM fields, have been removed

2. Who Is Affected? Understanding Your Eligibility

Affected Applicants

International students in non-degree programs who applied after November 1, 2024 must now graduate from a program on the updated eligible list to qualify for a PGWP

Grandfathering Provision

Students with study permit applications submitted before June 25, 2025 retain eligibility for PGWPs—even if their program was later removed

University Degree Exemption

Graduates with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees remain unaffected by field restrictions, though still bound by CLB 7 language requirements

3. Which Programs Were Affected?

These revisions, rooted in IRCC’s updated approach, direct PGWP eligibility toward high-demand occupations while de-emphasizing saturated sectors

4. Labour-Market Driven Adjustments

The overhaul reflects Canada’s broader immigration strategy: “Canada overhauls eligible fields of study for post-graduation work permits” ensures eligible programs align with Persistent Labour Market Shortages and Express Entry priorities. IRCC’s decision to remove less in-demand sectors reinforces the objective of creating a better-skilled, targeted workforce

5. What Graduates Must Know Now

• Confirm program eligibility using the updated CIP code list.
• Seek clarity on grandfathering if application was filed before June 25 or between June 25–July 4.
• Prepare for language exams: CLB 7 required for university grads, CLB 5 or 7 depending on college level.
• Plan early: ensure PGWP application is submitted within 180 days of program completion.

How Kansas Overseas Supports You

As seasoned Canada immigration specialists, Kansas Overseas offers full-service support tailored to these new PGWP rules:

1. Program Eligibility Assessment
   – Analyse your program’s CIP code against updated requirements.
2. Strategic Planning for PGWP
   – Advise on study permit timing, grandfathering eligibility, and application preparation.
3. Language Test Readiness
   – Provide CLB-focused coaching and resources for IELTS/CELPIP.
4. Permit Application Management
   – End-to-end support, from gathering documents to submission and bridging options.
5. PR Pathway Transition
   – Leverage PGWP experience for Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program progression.

Your Path Forward

Reach out today for personalized guidance:

Email: info@kansaz.in
Toll-Free: 1800‑102‑0109
Get a Free Consultation: https://www.kansaz.in/free-consultation