⚡ Canada’s Surprise Move: 119 PGWP Programs Reinstated
If you’re an international student—or planning to become one—you’ve probably been on edge watching Canada’s policy shifts lately. Well, here’s some genuinely good news:
Canada has reversed part of a controversial decision from just a week ago, and now
119 college programs are back on the list for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility.
This change gives hope and direction to students across the globe who dream of building a life in Canada after graduation.
So, What Actually Changed?
On
June 25, 2025, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) removed
178 non-degree diploma and certificate programs from PGWP eligibility. This sudden move left many students uncertain, especially those who had already applied for study permits in these fields.
But after widespread concern and feedback from colleges, stakeholders, and students, the government revised the list again on
July 4, 2025. Now,
119 of those programs have been reinstated, and are once again eligible for PGWP—a key stepping stone toward Canadian permanent residency.
This reversal shows Canada is still listening. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, this is exactly where an
Immigration Consultant in Canada like Sayal Immigration comes in—to help you make informed, timely decisions.
Why PGWP Eligibility Matters So Much
The PGWP isn’t just a work permit—it’s the bridge between your studies and long-term settlement in Canada. Without it, your chances of gaining skilled Canadian work experience (a key factor in most PR programs like
Express Entry) go down drastically.
What makes this update even more important is that only programs matching specific
CIP codes qualify. That’s the Classification of Instructional Programs—a six-digit code assigned to your field of study. If your program isn’t on the
eligible list, you won’t get a PGWP, no matter what school you attend.
To avoid mistakes, it’s a good idea to speak to a trusted
Immigration Consultant in Mississauga who can verify your chosen program’s CIP code before you apply.
Who Is Affected?
✅ Good News for Past Applicants
If you applied for your study permit before
June 25, 2025, or between
June 25 and July 4, you’re still eligible—even if your program was temporarily removed. You’re covered under what IRCC calls a
“grandfathering” policy.
❗ Planning to Apply Now?
If your study permit application is
after July 4, 2025, you must pick a program from the updated list of
920 eligible fields. Anything outside of this list won’t qualify for a post-graduation work permit—even if it was previously eligible.
We recommend confirming your field with an expert
Immigration Consultant in Brampton to ensure your plans align with the latest regulations.
What’s Still Required?
Even if your field is back on the list, PGWP eligibility still depends on a few key rules:
- You must complete your program at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- The program must be at least 8 months long
- You need to study full-time
- Degree program students (like Bachelor’s or Master’s) must meet a new language requirement of CLB/NCLC 7 in all four areas
The full eligibility details can be found on the
official IRCC website.
What’s the Strategy Behind This Update?
Canada isn’t just changing the rules for fun. This adjustment is part of a bigger plan to align international education with labour market needs.
The government is prioritizing fields like:
- Healthcare
- Social services
- Construction and skilled trades
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
That’s why programs in these sectors are being protected or restored—because Canada needs skilled workers in these areas.
For students interested in high-demand careers, it’s smart to speak to an
Immigration Consultant in Kitchener to explore study options that align with future immigration pathways.
A Few Examples to Make It Clear
| Situation |
PGWP Status |
| You applied in June for Computer Engineering (CIP 14.0901) |
✅ Still eligible |
| You start a Carpentry program in Fall 2025 (CIP 46.0201) |
✅ Eligible again |
| You plan to study Travel & Tourism in 2026 |
❌ Not eligible anymore |
These small details can affect your future in a big way, so it’s best not to guess.
What Students Should Do Right Now
Here’s a quick checklist to stay on track:
- Find your program’s CIP code. Ask your college directly.
- Check the eligibility list on IRCC’s official PGWP page.
- Apply for a study permit before any further changes are introduced.
- Get expert help—even one wrong move can delay or block your immigration plan.
If you’re based in the GTA, we recommend reaching out to a knowledgeable
Immigration Consultant in Toronto or
Immigration Consultant in Scarborough for personalized support.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
With immigration targets tightening and housing pressures rising, Canada is being more selective about who gets to stay after graduation. This isn’t to scare students—it’s to make sure everyone who comes here has the best chance of success.
Choosing your program wisely, staying informed, and consulting the right professionals can make all the difference.
If you’re planning to study in Southwestern Ontario, connect with the
best immigration consultant in London Ontario to get advice tailored to your field, goals, and timeline.
Final Thoughts from Sayal Immigration
The restored PGWP eligibility list is a sigh of relief for many students—but it’s also a signal:
Canada is making education-to-immigration pathways more strategic. That means smarter choices, and earlier planning, are more important than ever.
At
Sayal Immigration, we help students turn confusion into clarity. Whether you’re just choosing a college or already halfway through your program, we’re here to guide you step-by-step.
Reach out to us today and let’s turn your study journey into a success story that ends with a
Canadian permanent residency.
