Are you an international student eyeing Canada for your studies, with hopes of securing a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to launch your career? As of 2026, navigating PGWP eligibility has evolved, with stricter ties to labor market demands via Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes. This in-depth guide breaks down everything you need to know about PGWP eligible programs, including the latest CIP codes list, rule changes, and practical advice to help you choose the right path.

Whether you're interested in high-demand fields like STEM, healthcare, or skilled trades, understanding these requirements can pave the way for Canadian work experience and potential permanent residency through systems like Express Entry. We'll cover exemptions, transitional rules, and a comprehensive, searchable list of eligible programs—updated based on IRCC's July 2025 revisions and early 2026 adjustments. Let's get you equipped to make informed decisions.

Understanding the PGWP: Your Gateway to Working in Canada Post-Study

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that lets eligible international graduates work anywhere in Canada for up to three years after completing their program. It's not just about earning money—it's a strategic step toward gaining points for immigration pathways, as Canadian work experience is highly valued in programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Key benefits include:

• No job offer required upfront.
• Duration matches your program's length (minimum 8 months for eligibility, up to 3 years).
• Spousal work permits and pathways for family accompaniment in some cases.

However, eligibility isn't automatic. For non-degree programs (e.g., diplomas, certificates), your field must align with Canada's labor shortages, as defined by specific CIP codes. Degree holders (bachelor's, master's, PhD) are generally exempt, making university paths more flexible.

Key PGWP Rule Changes for 2026: What You Need to Know

IRCC updated PGWP rules in late 2024, with further refinements in 2025 and early 2026. These changes aim to prioritize skills in shortage areas, reducing the influx into oversaturated fields. Here's what's new:

• Field of Study Mandate: Non-degree programs must match one of over 900 eligible CIP codes in five core sectors: Agriculture and Agri-Food, Healthcare, STEM, Trade, and Transport.
• Additions and Removals: In July 2025, 119 fields were added (e.g., more education and social work programs). Early 2026 saw nearly 180 removals, including some agriculture management, kinesiology, digital media, and certain engineering tech roles, to better reflect current job market data.
• Exemptions Expanded: If your study permit was applied for before November 1, 2024, or you're in a degree program, you're exempt from CIP restrictions.
• Language and Other Requirements: Shorter non-degree programs now require CLB 5 language proficiency. PGWP applications must be filed within 180 days of graduation.
• Transitional Provisions: Programs eligible at study permit submission or PGWP application time remain valid, even if rules change mid-study.

These shifts align PGWP with Express Entry draws, favoring categories like healthcare and trades. Always verify on the official IRCC site, as lists are reviewed annually.

Step-by-Step: How to Verify If Your Program Qualifies for PGWP

Don't leave it to chance—follow this process to confirm eligibility:

1. Confirm DLI Status: Your school must be a Designated Learning Institution. Search IRCC's DLI tool by name or province.
2. Get Your CIP Code: Contact your program's admissions office or check the school's international student portal. CIP codes are 6-digit (e.g., 14.0101 for Engineering, General).
3. Cross-Check the Eligible List: Use IRCC's searchable CIP table. Filter by sector or code to match.
4. Consider Timelines: If your code was eligible at application time, you're good—even post-2026 removals won't retroactively affect you.
5. Seek Expert Help: Consult a Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for personalized advice, especially for transitional cases.

Pro Tip: Many colleges now flag "PGWP-eligible" on program pages. Examples include Centennial College's lists for healthcare diplomas or Seneca College's STEM certificates.

Comprehensive List of PGWP Eligible Programs and CIP Codes for 2026

Based on IRCC's latest updates (post-early 2026 removals), here's a full, categorized breakdown of eligible CIP codes. We've included program titles, descriptions, and notes where applicable (e.g., transitional eligibility for codes added/removed). This text-based table format makes it easy to search and reference—unlike image-based lists on other sites.

Agriculture and Agri-Food

Healthcare and Social Services

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Trade

Transport

Education

This is the maximum list of eligible programs and their CIP codes based on the current IRCC rules as of January 2026. The full official list has over 1,100 entries and may be updated periodically, so verify your program's CIP code on the IRCC website for the latest eligibility. To verify You can also visit Official Website here.