Planning to Work in Canada After Graduation? Here’s What You Need to Know About PGWP Eligibility
If you’re an international student aiming to work in Canada after graduation, securing a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is essential. However, recent changes introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) make planning ahead more important than ever—especially for those in college or non-degree programs.
New Rules Tie Work Permits to Fields of Study
As of November 1, 2024, IRCC has introduced field of study requirements for PGWP eligibility, primarily affecting international students enrolled in college-level or non-university programs. These changes are part of Canada’s strategy to align immigration with labor market needs and reduce the number of temporary residents.
Here’s how the new rules break down:
| Level of Study | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|
| College bachelor’s degree programs | Not required |
| University bachelor’s, master’s, PhD | Not required |
| Other university programs | Must be in an eligible field |
| College/non-university programs | Must be in an eligible field |
What Are Eligible Fields of Study?
To qualify for a PGWP under these new rules, your program must match one of the eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes tied to in-demand sectors, which currently include:
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Education
- Health care and social services
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Skilled trades
- Transport
Changes to this list are expected in early 2026, so staying updated is critical.
How to Confirm Your Program Is Eligible
- Find the Right CIP Code: Use Statistics Canada’s CIP system to locate the six-digit code that accurately describes your study program.
- Check PGWP Eligibility: Use tools provided by your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) or PGWP resources to confirm your code is on the eligible list.
- Contact Your School: If unsure, reach out to your DLI directly for guidance.
Language and General Eligibility Requirements
Apart from field of study, you must also meet language and general criteria:
Language Requirements (Canadian Language Benchmark – CLB):
| Program Level | Minimum CLB Score |
|---|---|
| College bachelor’s or university degree | CLB 7 |
| Other college/non-university programs | CLB 5 |
General Eligibility:
- Complete a full-time program at a PGWP-eligible DLI lasting at least 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec).
- Apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving proof of graduation.
- Have held a valid study permit during your studies and at some point during the 180-day period before applying.
- Final semester can be part-time, but all other semesters must be full-time.
Takeaway: If you’re an international student in Canada, don’t leave your PGWP eligibility to chance. Know the rules, choose your program wisely, and ensure it aligns with both CIP codes and Canada’s labor market needs. Early planning is key to building your future career in Canada.