Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released a crucial update regarding the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria for international students in Canada.
On July 4, 2025, IRCC revised the list of eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes, reinstating several fields of study that were removed in the June 25 update. This change provides clarity and relief to many students whose programs were temporarily excluded.
Key Highlights of the PGWP Update:
Reinstated Fields: Fields of study removed on June 25, 2025, have been added back to the eligibility list as of July 4, 2025.
Transitional Eligibility: If you applied for a study permit between June 25 and July 4, 2025, and your program was removed during that period, you will still meet the field of study requirement for a PGWP upon graduation.
Next Update Timeline: The eligible CIP list will be updated again in early 2026.
Background on the New Field of Study Requirement:
This update is part of broader changes introduced in 2024 to ensure that international education aligns with Canada’s labour market needs. Under the new rules:
Students in non-degree programs (i.e., not pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree) must now complete a program in a designated field of study that is linked to occupations facing long-term shortages.
This requirement applies to all international students who applied for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024.
Changes in the July 2025 Update:
119 new fields of study added in priority sectors, such as:
Health care and social services
Education
Skilled trades
178 fields of study removed that are no longer aligned with long-term labour shortages.
The total number of eligible programs now stands at 920.
Important Notes for International Students:
If you applied before June 25, 2025, you remain eligible for a PGWP if your program was on the list at that time—even if it’s been removed since.
Always check the current eligible CIP code list to confirm your program’s status before applying.
Check if your program’s CIP code is eligible for a PGWP by visiting the official IRCC website.
Need help understanding your PGWP eligibility or choosing the right study program in Canada?
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