The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada is one of the most crucial permits for international students who intend to work after completing their studies. However, the rules governing which study programs are eligible for a PGWP are changing — and quickly.
There were some significant changes to the list of approved fields of study in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) recently published 2025–26 plan. These changes represent a strategic move: Making PGWP eligibility better align with Canada’s longer-term labour market needs, particularly in underserved occupations.
In this blog, as there’s much to cover between now and the upcoming semester at American colleges and universities, we’ll unpack what is different, who is affected, and how international students (and prospective international students) might adjust to this new terrain.
What’s New: Key Updates from IRCC
1. Big overhaul to the available Fields (June 25, 2025)
On June 25, 2025, IRCC updated its PGWP-eligible list in line with its 2025 Express Entry priorities.
One hundred nineteen new fields of study were introduced, particularly in healthcare, social services, education, and the trades.
Simultaneously, 178 fields were removed. These programs were not linked to positions in long-term labour-shortage areas, said IRCC.
With this change, the number of valid CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) codes was reduced to 920.
2. Partial Reversal (July 4, 2025)
A little over a week later, IRCC reversed the bulk of those removals. On July 4, 2025, they restored all or most of the 178 fields that were struck on June 25.
The restored fields will remain until January 2026, at which point IRCC is due to reevaluate and republish the list.
Crucially, students who applied for a study permit between June 25 and July 4, 2025 (for that brief period) are saved: their programs remain eligible under the list as it is reinstated.
3. Exemptions for Degree Holders
IRCC notes that field-of-study requirements do not apply to university graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD) of university programs.
There are some positive changes, including the exclusion of former college bachelor’s degree graduates (previously subject to the field-of-study limitation). As of March 2025, graduates are no longer required to meet the field-of-study eligibility to be eligible for a PGWP.
Why These Changes Actually Matter
Labour Market Alignment:
IRCC’s reshuffling isn’t random — it’s a response to changing economic demands in Canada. By prioritizing in-demand fields facing long-term labour shortages (such as healthcare, the trades, and education), the government is directing international graduates into high-demand roles.
Stability vs. Uncertainty:
The restoration of the 178 fields provides a short reprieve. However, these are also only locked in through early 2026, so students should keep an eye out. The eligibility criteria could be rearranged again in the following list update.
Planning Implications for Students:
- If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, and your sector was eligible at that time, you are still eligible.
- The grace period also applies to you if you applied between June 25 and July 4, 2025.
- Now, check your program’s CIP code against the latest IRCC list. Request the CIP number from your school and verify that it’s accurate on IRCC’s website. And if you’re in the process of enrolling (or considering)
Institutional Impact
By IRCC. Colleges and institutes are required to update their internal list of PGWP-eligible programs. Some schools, such as RRC Polytech, are already doing so to comply with changes made.
Risks & Recommendations for Students
Risk of Dis-Eligibility After 2026
Reinstated categories may be amended again. Students in those programs should closely follow the IRCC announcement and consider other alternatives if their CIP code is at risk.
Stay Informed:
Partner with international student advisors or consult with immigration experts (such as Swift Immigration Solutions Inc.) to better understand these changes and outline your path.
Look Ahead
If you worry about your program becoming delisted in the future, consider switching to a degree or field of study that is more closely aligned with labour demand.
What This Means for Swift Immigration Solutions Inc.
Advisory Role
We must be in a position to counsel our student clients on the choice of study program, its relevance, eligible CIP codes, and the timing of applications for a study permit in relation to policy windows.
Policy Monitoring
This will be key to monitoring closely — particularly given that we’re likely to see the following review early in 2026.
Institutional Communication
Establishing relationships with colleges and universities to synchronize their program lists with IRCC changes enables students to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
IRCC’s 2025–26 timeline for PGWP eligibility, which will be granted, appears to be calculated with Canada’s long-term commercial needs in mind. Both scouting and retrenchment in fields are part of a push-and-pull as China tries to balance limiting the excesses of oversupply while promoting areas it considers priorities. For international students, the advice is straightforward: choose wisely, stay informed, and plan.
Swift Immigration Solutions Inc. is dedicated to helping students navigate these evolving regulations. If you’re unsure whether your program qualifies or need help maximizing your PGWP, contact us now—we’re here to support all your needs.