Canada Work Permit Update: 178 Programs Ineligible for PR

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 28, 2025International Students & GraduatesCanada Post-Graduation Work Permit, immigration, student work rules, visa sponsorship, work permits

Canada is making significant changes to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program for international students, set to take effect on June 25, 2025. This will impact how you can secure a work permit in Canada after your studies, so let’s break down what this means for you.

Why Were Certain Programs Removed from PGWP Eligibility?

The Canadian government has removed 178 non-degree programs from the PGWP list because they didn’t align with long-term demands in the labour market. This move aims to ensure that educational fields match job opportunities, particularly in areas experiencing critical labour shortages. Fields like healthcare and education are now becoming more prominent, creating a need for skilled professionals.

What Are the New In-Demand Fields for Work Permits?

In place of the removed programs, 119 new fields have been added, mostly in healthcare, trades, and education. If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, you may be exempt from these changes thanks to transitional rules. It’s designed to give current students the opportunity to finish their studies and still benefit from a PGWP, as long as their programme is in one of the newly designated fields.

This update also aligns with Canada’s Express Entry priorities for 2025, ensuring that international students who complete degrees in high-demand areas can more easily transition to work in Canada. To be eligible for a PGWP now, if you are studying in a non-degree program, you should have coursework closely related to areas experiencing job shortages.

How Does This Tie into Canada’s Express Entry Plans for 2025?

The changes to PGWP eligibility are part of a broader adaptation of Canada’s immigration policies, particularly regarding the **Express Entry** system which invites skilled workers to apply for permanent residency (PR). This system categorizes applicants based on their skills and work experiences, and in 2025, it will focus heavily on sectors like education, trades, and healthcare.

Moreover, the Canadian Experience Class will remain a vital pathway, targeting candidates who already have work experience in Canada. This is great news for international students, as it means that once you gain Canadian work experience, you could find yourself in a strong position to apply for PR.

FAQs

Who still qualifies for a PGWP under the new rules?
If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, you can still qualify for a PGWP, regardless of whether your programme is later removed from the eligibility list.

Why did Canada exclude 178 programs from PGWP eligibility?
The programs were removed because they did not correspond to jobs that are experiencing long-term shortages in Canada.

In summary, these changes aim to ensure that the education system meets the needs of the Canadian job market and provide real opportunities for international students to work and settle in Canada. As you explore your options for visa sponsorship and work permits, staying informed about these developments will be key to your success.