Islamabad, June 27, 2025: Canada has recently introduced major revisions to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) criteria, particularly for international students enrolled in non-degree courses. These changes are crucial for Pakistani students planning to study and work in Canada.
Effective from June 25, 2025, the government has:
- Removed 178 fields of study from PGWP eligibility.
- Added 119 new fields connected to labor shortages.
2024 Policy Shift in International Student Program
As part of the updated International Student Program, a new rule was implemented in 2024.
To qualify for a PGWP, international students enrolled in non-degree programs (excluding bachelor’s, master’s, or PhDs) must complete a course listed in an eligible field of study—particularly those aligned with long-term labor gaps, including occupations targeted under Express Entry.
New Conditions Based on Application Dates
From November 1, 2024, Pakistani students applying for a study permit must ensure their program falls under one of the currently approved fields of study.
Beginning June 25, Canada updated the list in line with 2025 Express Entry priorities, implementing the following adjustments:
- 119 additional fields introduced in vital sectors such as:
- Healthcare and Social Services
- Education
- Skilled Trades
- 178 fields removed that no longer correspond with long-term workforce requirements.
READ MORE: No Work Permit: Canada Work Visa- How to Apply
Current Status of PGWP-Eligible Programs
There are now 920 recognized fields of study under PGWP.
Students who submitted their study permit applications before June 25, 2025, will still be eligible if their program was on the list at the time of application—even if it has since been taken off.
READ MORE: Canada Relaxes Work Permit Rules for Foreign Workers
Meeting Field of Study Requirement
To fulfill this requirement, Pakistani students must graduate from a course listed under the current CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) codes at the time of applying for:
- Study permit
- Post-graduation work permit
If your CIP code has been excluded by the time you apply for a PGWP, it may still be valid if it was listed when you filed your study permit application.
Exemptions from the Field of Study Rule
You are not required to meet the field of study condition for Canada post-graduation work permit if:
- Your PGWP application was submitted before November 1, 2024, at any study level.
- You completed your course from a recognized flight school eligible under PGWP.
- You earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
- You applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024.
