Canada Updates PGWP Eligibility: New Field of Study and Language Requirements (2025)

June 26, 2025 – Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced major changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility, targeting high-demand sectors and strengthening language requirements. These updates align with Canada’s 2025 Express Entry priorities to address critical labor shortages.

Revised PGWP Eligibility: Fields of Study

The list of eligible fields of study for the PGWP has been updated, with 119 new additions in sectors like health care, education, skilled trades, and social services. Meanwhile, 178 fields no longer linked to long-term labor shortages have been removed. The revised list now includes 920 eligible programs.

Grandfathering Clause: Students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025, can still qualify for a PGWP if their program was eligible at the time of application—even if it’s since been removed.

For the official list of eligible fields, visit the IRCC website.

New Language Requirements for PGWP Eligibility

Effective November 1, 2024, IRCC has introduced tiered language proficiency standards based on program type:

• Bachelor’s/Master’s/Doctoral Graduates: CLB/NCLC level 7 (all four skills).

• Other University Programs: CLB/NCLC level 7 + eligible field tied to labor shortages.

• College/Non-Degree Programs: CLB/NCLC level 5 + eligible field.

Note: Only language tests less than two years old at the time of application are accepted. For approved tests, check IRCC’s language testing page.

Key Takeaways: Canada Updates PGWP Eligibility

• 920 fields now qualify for PGWP eligibility.

• Language requirements vary by program level.

• Grandfathering protects pre-June 25, 2025 study permit applicants.

For more updates on Canadian immigration policies, explore VisasUpdate.com.

Canada Updates PGWP Eligibility