July 12, 2025

⚡ 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:
  1. Find your program’s CIP code. Ask your college directly.
  2. Check the eligibility list on IRCC’s official PGWP page.
  3. Apply for a study permit before any further changes are introduced.
  4. 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.
July 4, 2025

Canada’s Immigration Shake-Up in 2025: What It Means for You

Let’s face it—if you’ve been following Canadian immigration, you already know things are changing fast. The government has tightened its rules, trimmed its targets, and introduced new strategies for selecting newcomers.

So, what do you do now?

You stay ahead. And that’s exactly where we come in at Sayal Immigration—a top-rated Immigration Consultant in Canada. We’re here to break this down in a way that actually makes sense—and helps you take action confidently.

🛑 Fewer Temporary Residents: Why Your Application Needs to Be Spot-On

The Government of Canada has decided to limit the number of temporary residents—think students, foreign workers, and visitors—to just 5% of the population by 2027.

What does this mean for you?

It means the bar just got higher. Every detail in your application matters now—your course, the school, your job offer, and even the location. At Sayal Immigration, we’ve helped hundreds of clients navigate these exact shifts.

If you’re in the GTA, our advisors are available locally. We’re a well-established Immigration Consultant in Mississauga and can guide you on which study and work programs are still viable under the new limits.

📉 PR Targets Are Dropping Too—But There’s a Silver Lining

The government is also dialing back permanent residency targets—moving from 465,000 in 2024 to 395,000 this year, and gradually down to 365,000 by 2027.

Yes, fewer spots. But the good news? If you’re already in Canada, your odds just got better. IRCC wants people with Canadian work or study experience. And that’s where strategy matters.

If you’re in Peel Region, you can meet our team face-to-face. We’re known as a top Immigration Consultant in Brampton, and we’ve helped clients transition from PGWP to PR faster than they expected.

⚙️ Express Entry Is Changing—And Fast

Forget the old Express Entry model that rewarded job offers and generic profiles. The 2025 version is more focused, and—let’s be honest—a bit more competitive.

Now it’s about:

  • Whether your occupation is in demand

  • Your language ability (especially in French)

  • Where you plan to live and work

Sayal Immigration helps you keep up. If you’re looking for expert support in southern Ontario, connect with our Immigration consultant in Kitchener. We align your skills with real-time Express Entry draws—so you’re always one step ahead.

🧑‍🔧 Canada Wants Essential Workers—And It’s Opening New Doors

Big changes are also coming for sectors like agriculture, food processing, construction, and health care. The government is designing specialized work permit streams to bring in folks with hands-on skills.

This is a massive opportunity.

At Sayal Immigration, we don’t just push papers—we connect people with real employers and genuine jobs. If you live in Scarborough or nearby, visit our office. We’ve built a reputation as a reliable Immigration Consultant in Scarborough for applicants entering these vital sectors.

🎓 New Rules for PGWPs and Spousal Permits: It’s Getting Specific

Not all study programs lead to a PGWP anymore. And not every spouse can now get an open work permit. The rules have changed—and the clock is ticking.

Only certain graduate-level programs and skilled work sectors now qualify.

This is where you really need expert help. If you’re studying in or around London, reach out to us—we’re recognized as the Best immigration consultant in London Ontario. We’ll help you structure your pathway carefully—so you don’t waste time or tuition on programs that lead nowhere.

🖥️ Welcome to AI-Driven Immigration—Are You Ready?

The IRCC is going digital in a big way. New tools like GeoMatch AI are now helping the government select candidates faster—and with better alignment to Canada’s economic needs.

The idea sounds great. But one wrong step—like uploading the wrong document, missing an NOC code, or misunderstanding your program—can mess everything up.

We manage all of that for you.

Our team, one of the most trusted Immigration Consultant in Toronto, helps clients navigate every IRCC portal, submit error-free documents, and optimize their profile for AI selection tools. At Sayal Immigration, we ensure your documents are fully compliant with IRCC digital standards, giving you the edge in a tech-driven selection process.

🗣️ French Speakers Get a Priority Boost

One of the most interesting changes this year? Canada wants more French-speaking newcomers, especially outside Quebec. They’re aiming for 8.5% of PR admissions to come from bilingual or French-only applicants.

We’re already working with multiple clients pursuing this route. If you’ve got French language skills—even at an intermediate level—we’ll show you how to leverage it.

🆘 Refugees & Humanitarian Pathways Are Expanding

There’s also good news for displaced individuals and refugees. Canada is growing its Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) and other humanitarian programs. If you or someone you know is fleeing conflict and has work skills, there are real options here.

We offer trusted legal guidance, including with partners registered through UNHCR Canada and approved government sponsors.

🧭 What Sayal Immigration Does Differently

Let’s be real-immigration is personal. It’s about your goals, your family, your next chapter.

At Sayal Immigration, we don’t use templates. Every case is different. Here’s what we focus on:

Personalized Pathway Planning
Document Perfection & Portal Navigation
Real-Time Policy Tracking
Support Across Ontario Cities
Settlement Help After Approval

Whether you’re in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Kitchener, Scarborough, or London—we’re here to help, in person or virtually.


🚀 Final Thoughts: Adapt. Act. Achieve.

2025 might feel uncertain—but with the right planning, it’s full of opportunity.

Let us guide you through it all—no fluff, no guesswork. Just expert advice, tailored to you.

Sayal Immigration: Where your journey to Canada becomes real.