Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Breaking News on Canadian Immigration Policies
Canadian immigration policies impact international students' post-graduation opportunities
On This Page You Will Find:
- Details on Canada's recent immigration announcement
- How this impacts international students
- Changes to PGWP eligibility over time
- General PGWP requirements
- Effects on international graduates
Summary:
Canada's immigration department has delayed removing certain study programs from post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility. This change affects students who applied for study permits between June 25 and July 4, 2025. They can now qualify for PGWPs with programs that were once ineligible. The update mostly affects college graduates, with university graduates seeing little impact.
Did you know that Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has postponed changes to the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility list? Announced on July 4, 2025, this extension allows more study programs to stay eligible until early 2026. Why does this matter to you? It gives international students more time to plan their future in Canada.
For students who applied for study permits between June 25 and July 4, this change is crucial. They can now qualify for PGWPs based on programs previously removed. As a result, the number of eligible programs has increased from 920 to 1,107. College program graduates are most affected, while university graduates are not impacted much. This highlights IRCC's focus on non-degree programs.
The PGWP offers international graduates the freedom to work in Canada for up to three years. Unlike other permits, PGWPs let you work for any employer. This flexibility helps graduates explore various career paths in Canada.
Recent Changes to PGWP Eligibility
On June 25, IRCC made significant changes to the PGWP list. They removed many programs but added new ones, especially in "Education." They introduced 119 new Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes and removed 178, including the "Transport" category.
The CIP system classifies programs based on their curriculum. These changes mainly affect students in non-degree programs who applied after November 1, 2024. However, those who applied before June 25, 2025, can still qualify based on the old system.
General Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a PGWP, students must complete a program at a designated learning institution that lasts at least eight months. They need to maintain full-time status, except in their final semester, and apply within 180 days after finishing their program.
During the 180-day period, students must keep their study permit valid and meet language standards. These requirements highlight the IRCC's focus on maintaining educational quality and integrity.
The IRCC's decision shows how immigration policies can change and impact international students. Staying informed is key for navigating your educational and career path in Canada.
Key Takeaways:
- IRCC postpones PGWP changes until early 2026.
- Eligibility now includes more programs, benefiting college graduates.
- PGWPs allow graduates to work for any Canadian employer.
- Stay informed on changes to make the most of your education in Canada.
