Changes to PGWP Eligibility for Canada Immigration

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 29, 2025International Students & GraduatesCanada immigration, eligibility rules, PGWP, visa sponsorship, work permits

The Canadian government recently updated the eligibility criteria for work permits related to its international student program. This change comes from an announcement made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and it could significantly impact international students aiming to gain work experience in Canada.

Here’s the scoop: students enrolled in non-degree programs in 178 specific fields will no longer qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows students who have completed their studies to remain in Canada and obtain valuable on-the-job experience. The decision aims to focus on programs that correspond with long-term labour market needs.

However, it’s not all bad news! Alongside the removal of certain fields, IRCC has added 119 new eligible majors. These include areas in healthcare, social services, education, and various trades. With these additions, a total of 920 fields are now eligible for the PGWP.

Now, if you’re an international student considering this pathway, keep in mind that these field-specific requirements mainly affect those who applied for study permits on or after November 1, 2024. If you’re graduating from a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program, rest assured that these changes won’t apply to you.

Importantly, the revised criteria only concern those who filed for their study permits on or after June 25, 2025. If you submitted your application before this date, you’ll still be eligible for the PGWP—even if you’re studying in a field that has been removed from the list.

If you’re curious about which fields of study are eligible for non-degree PGWPs, you can find detailed information on the IRCC’s website.

What is an LMIA?

For those interested in work permits and sponsorship in Canada, you may hear about an LMIA—Labour Market Impact Assessment. This is a document that an employer typically must obtain to hire a foreign worker. It ensures that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively affect the Canadian job market.

How to Get Sponsored to Work in Canada

You may also want to explore various visa pathways like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Express Entry, which streamline the process of obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Each program has its requirements, so researching your specific situation is crucial.

In conclusion, staying informed about changes in Canadian immigration policies can greatly enhance your job prospects and make your transition smoother. Whether you’re looking to gain professional experience through a PGWP or aiming for permanent residency, Canada offers various opportunities for international job seekers.