PGWP Eligibility Restored for 178 Programs in Canada Until Early 2026
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On July 4, 2025, Canada reversed its recent policy change, reinstating Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility for 178 fields of study that had been removed on June 25. This decision allows international students in these programs to once again apply for a PGWP, which is a crucial pathway to building a career in Canada.
The reinstated fields will remain eligible until early 2026, with the policy applying retroactively to students who submitted study permit applications between June 25 and July 4, 2025.
Canada's July 2025 PGWP Update
In June 2025, Canada鈥檚 Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made a controversial move by removing 178 fields of study from the PGWP eligibility list. This decision left many international students uncertain about their future, as their programs are no longer qualified for the coveted work permit.
Jumping to July 4, 2025, and the IRCC reversed this decision in a much surprising and welcome update. The 178 fields of study removed on June 25 got reinstated, meaning students in these programs can once again apply for a PGWP.
The reinstatement is set to remain in effect until early 2026, when the eligibility list will be reviewed again. Even better, students who submitted study permit applications between June 25 and July 4, 2025, for these previously ineligible fields are still covered under the new rules.
Also Read: Canada Revises List of Fields of Study Eligible for PGWP
Why This PGWP Policy Reversal Matters
The restatement of all these fields is a lifeline for thousands of international students. Here are the reasons why this policy reversal matters:
- Fixed Career Pathways: Students in business, technology, healthcare, and other high-demand fields have a chance once again to pursue their Canadian career ambitions with certainty, as these programs regain PGWP eligibility.
- Retroactive Protection: By considering the applications submitted during June the transition period of 25鈥揓uly 4, Canada shows its commitment to fairness and support for international students.
- Strategic Workforce Alignment: The reinstated 178 fields directly address Canada's constant upliftment towards labor shortages, ensuring international graduates can fill crucial roles in the evolving economy.
- PR Pathway Preservation: This update safeguards the essential PGWP-to-PR pipeline, maintaining access to permanent residency opportunities for thousands of students.
- Increase in Global Competitiveness: The policy reversal strengthens Canada's position as a premier study destination, supporting enrollment growth and generating significant economic benefits nationwide.
What Does a CIP Code Mean?
A CIP code is a standardized system used to classify instructional programs at colleges and universities. For PGWP qualification under the 2025 rules, your program's CIP code must appear on IRCC's approved list at two critical points:
- When you submit your initial study permit application, AND
- When you apply for your Post-Graduation Work Permit.
How to Verify Your Program's PGWP Eligibility?
Steps | What to Do | Where to Check or Who to Contact |
Find Your CIP Code | Request from registrar/program office; check official transcript or DLI website | Your institution |
Review Eligible CIP Codes | Cross-reference your CIP code with the IRCC鈥檚 July 4, 2025 eligible list | IRCC website |
Verify Application Timing | Check date of study permit application: - Before June 25, 2025: Old list applies - June 25鈥揓uly 4, 2025: July 4 update applies retroactively - After July 4, 2025: Use current list | IRCC website |
If Unsure | Contact IRCC or your institution鈥檚 international student office for clarification | IRCC, Institution鈥檚 International Office |
Also Read: Alberta Holds Five Provincial Immigration Draws through AAIP
PGWP In-Demand Fields Reinstated on July 4, 2025
- Healthcare:
- Nursing
- Medical laboratory technology
- Pharmacy
- Technology:
- Computer science
- Software engineering
- Data analytics
- Business:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Supply chain management
- Skilled Trades:
- Engineering technology
- Construction
- Automotive repair
This recent development is particularly crucial for students in healthcare, technology, and other high-demand sectors who can now confidently pursue their Canadian career dreams. The policy even includes a retroactive clause protecting students who applied between June 25 and July 4, ensuring no one misses out due to the temporary changes.
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