Canada Limits Courses for Post-Graduation Work Permits

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 28, 2025International Students & GraduatesCanada immigration, international students, post-graduation work permits, visa sponsorship, work permits

If you’re an international student considering studying in Canada, it’s essential to stay informed about how recent changes to post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) might affect your future. These permits allow graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada after completing their studies, which can be a significant stepping stone toward permanent residency (PR). However, recent updates have tightened the eligibility requirements.

What are the Latest Changes to PGWP Eligibility?

As of June 25, 2025, the Canadian government has revised the list of fields of study that qualify for PGWPs. A statement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) highlighted that, while 119 new fields have been added—primarily in health care, trades, education, and social services—178 fields that were previously eligible have been removed. This shift aims to align with the Canadian labour market’s long-term needs, reflecting priorities under the Express Entry system, which is one of the main pathways to Canadian PR.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re planning to study in Canada, make sure your chosen field of study is current and eligible for a PGWP. The recent update now offers a total of 920 eligible fields, significantly narrowing the options but focusing on areas with labor shortages. For students enrolled in non-degree programs, it’s crucial to ensure that your course of study links directly to jobs in demand.

It’s worth noting that if you applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, you may still be eligible for a PGWP based on the field of study you chose at that time, even if it’s been removed from the eligibility list since your application.

How Does This Impact Visa Sponsorship and Job Opportunities?

Currently, PGWPs are an excellent way to gain Canadian work experience, which can enhance your job prospects significantly. Having work experience in Canada not only makes you more appealing to potential employers but also can earn you points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) used for Express Entry applications.

Employers in Canada sometimes require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for work permits, which verifies that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact the local job market. However, holding a PGWP can simplify the process as it shows eligibility for Canadian work experience.

Your Next Steps

Before deciding on a program, do your research and check that it’s on the list of eligible fields for PGWPs. This careful planning will help you build a successful career in Canada and pave the way for potentially obtaining PR.