IRCC Freezes PGWP-Eligible Fields of Study List for 2026

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that it will not make any changes to the list of educational programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for the entire 2026 calendar year.

This means no new programs will be added and no existing programs will be removed from the current PGWP-eligible fields of study list until at least 2027.

What Is the PGWP and Why This Matters

The PGWP is an open work permit that allows eligible international graduates to work in Canada after completing their studies. It is often a key pathway to gaining Canadian work experience and eventually applying for permanent residence.

In 2024, IRCC introduced a field-of-study requirement for some graduates. Under this rule, certain students must complete a program linked to long-term labour shortages in order to qualify for a PGWP.

The 2026 freeze brings stability and certainty for students planning their education and post-graduation work plans.

Who Is Affected by the Field-of-Study Requirement?

The field-of-study requirement does not apply to everyone.

You are exempt from this requirement if you:

• Graduated with a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree

• Applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024

• Submitted a PGWP application before November 1, 2024

• Graduated from a PGWP-eligible flight school

However, the requirement generally applies to non-degree programs, such as:

• College diplomas

• Certificates

• Certain post-secondary credentials below the bachelor’s level

What Programs Are Currently Eligible?

As of now, 1,107 programs remain eligible for the PGWP. These programs are mainly in sectors facing long-term labour shortages, including:

• Healthcare and social services

• Education

• Skilled trades

• Agriculture

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

• Transportation

Because the list is frozen for 2026, all programs currently on the list will remain eligible throughout the year.

What Is a CIP Code — and Why Is It Important?

Each post-secondary program in Canada has a 6-digit Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code. IRCC uses these codes to determine whether a program meets PGWP eligibility requirements.

If you are enrolled in a non-degree program, your CIP code must be on IRCC’s eligible list at the time you apply for:

• Your study permit, or

• Your PGWP

Students are strongly advised to:

• Confirm their CIP code with their Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

• Verify eligibility before starting or changing programs

What the 2026 Freeze Means for Students

This announcement provides welcome clarity for:

• Prospective international students choosing a program

• Current students planning post-graduation work

• Graduates preparing PGWP applications

With no changes coming in 2026, students can plan with confidence — but eligibility rules still apply, and choosing the wrong program can affect future work and PR options.

Need Help Confirming PGWP Eligibility?

PGWP rules can be complex, especially for college and certificate programs. A small mistake in program selection or CIP code can have long-term consequences.

If you are unsure whether your program qualifies — or how this update affects your future plans — speak with a licensed professional before making decisions.

Book a consultation with Rema Immigration Consulting for personalized guidance. Contact Rema Immigration Consulting for expert guidance. Call us at (587) 317-1533 or email info@remaimmigration.com to schedule your consultation and take the first step.