6 Essential Insights About Study Visa and PGWP Changes for 2026
Key Updates for Study Visa Applicants and PGWP Eligibility in London, ON
Imagine you're an international student from India, eager to study in Canada and kickstart your career in a global environment. You've set your eyes on a diploma in digital marketing at a reputable college in London, ON. However, the newly announced freeze on the list of programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for 2026 catches your attention. This unexpected update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) could influence your course eligibility for obtaining Canadian work experience after graduation. If you are considering applying for a study visa, understanding these updates is crucial for making informed decisions about your educational future in Canada.
This guide breaks down the latest changes in simple terms, exploring what the study visa is, why the PGWP matters, and how to plan your education strategically. By engaging with this guide, you will leave with a clear, step-by-step plan to navigate the 2026 updates, enabling you to make informed decisions about your study and work opportunities in Canada.
What is a Study Visa and Who Needs It?
A study visa, officially called a study permit, allows international students to legally pursue post-secondary education in Canada. Without a study visa, attending college or university in Canada is not possible. The decision-making process involves visa officers who assess applications in accordance with IRCC guidelines, ensuring that applicants meet all legal and financial requirements. By highlighting these human elements and the rigorous attention to policy, students can better understand the factors that influence visa approval.
For students in London, ON, obtaining a study visa is the first step to experiencing Canadian education while gaining opportunities for work and professional growth. A study visa permits limited on-campus and off-campus work, letting students start building Canadian work experience even during their studies.
International students must provide proof of acceptance from an eligible institution, demonstrate financial stability, and meet other IRCC requirements to secure a study visa. Planning ahead and applying correctly increases the chances of approval.
Why the PGWP Freeze Matters
In January 2026, IRCC confirmed that the list of educational programs eligible for the PGWP will remain unchanged throughout the year. The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada after completing their studies, offering a pathway to valuable work experience and potential permanent residency.
The freeze affects primarily non-degree programs, such as diplomas and certificate courses. Students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees are exempt from field-of-study restrictions. However, for certificate-level programs, only courses aligned with occupations facing long-term labour shortages qualify for a PGWP.
For students applying for a study visa, this update provides clarity. Knowing which programs remain eligible helps you select the right course from the start, avoiding surprises that could limit post-graduation opportunities.
How to Choose a Program That Works
Choosing a program eligible for a PGWP requires checking IRCC's official list of Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes. Each program has a unique six-digit code used to classify it by field of study. While reading this guide, take a moment to pull up your program's CIP code and cross-check it with the current IRCC eligibility list. This proactive step can ensure your chosen course aligns with PGWP requirements, thus preventing any future obstacles. Students applying for a study visa in London, ON, should confirm their program is included before submitting their application.
Currently, IRCC’s list includes 1,107 eligible programs across sectors like healthcare, education, trades, agriculture, STEM, and transport. Selecting a program strategically ensures you can work in Canada after graduation, maximising your investment in education.
Steps to Secure Your Study Visa
Securing a study visa involves several steps, each requiring attention to detail:
- Acceptance Letter – Obtain an official letter from an eligible educational institution in Canada.
- Financial Proof – Show you have sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and travel.
- CIP Verification – Confirm that your program’s CIP code is on the PGWP-eligible list.
- Application Submission – Complete the study visa application accurately and submit all required documents.
- Prepare for Interview – Some applicants may be asked to attend a visa interview to confirm their intentions.
Following these steps carefully improves the likelihood of study visa approval and ensures a smoother start to your Canadian education.
What the 2026 Freeze Means for Your Future
The PGWP freeze guarantees stability for the year, allowing students to plan with confidence. Programs that were eligible in 2025 remain valid for 2026, and no new fields of study will be added or removed.
For students targeting work opportunities after graduation, this is a significant advantage. You can choose programs that meet IRCC requirements for a PGWP, enabling you to gain Canadian work experience, build professional networks, and explore pathways to permanent residence. Typically, after gaining work experience with a PGWP, many students transition to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry, making Canadian residency an achievable goal.
How Neev Immigration Services Can Help
Navigating the study visa process and PGWP eligibility can be complex, especially with frequent changes in immigration policy. In London, ON, Neev Immigration Services provides comprehensive support for international students, helping you:
- Identify programs eligible for a PGWP.
- Complete a study visa application with precision.
- Understand financial and documentation requirements.
- Strategically plan your education to maximise work opportunities after graduation.
With expert guidance, students can confidently select programs that align with their career goals and comply with IRCC rules. Neev Immigration Services ensures each step of the study visa process is handled professionally, reducing stress and increasing the chances of success.
Tips for Maximising Your Study Visa Experience
While the study visa opens doors to Canadian education, making the most of the opportunity requires planning:
- Research Eligible Programs – Focus on PGWP-eligible courses to secure work options after graduation.
- Budget Wisely – Include tuition, housing, and daily expenses in your financial plan.
- Engage on Campus – Join clubs, attend networking events, and volunteer to enhance your resume.
- Plan for Post-Graduation – Explore career options aligned with your program to make the most of the PGWP.
Taking these steps ensures your study visa experience is both academically and professionally rewarding.
Moving Forward
For international students in London, ON, 2026 is a year of certainty and opportunity. The IRCC freeze on PGWP-eligible programs allows students to confidently select courses that lead to work permits after graduation. By securing a study visa and choosing the right program, you can gain Canadian work experience and open pathways to permanent residency. To take the first step towards your future in Canada, book an eligibility consultation with Neev Immigration Services today and get personalised advice on your study visa and program options.
With professional assistance from Neev Immigration Services, students can navigate the process with ease, ensuring every application step is completed correctly and strategically. The combination of informed planning, eligibility verification, and expert guidance makes achieving your Canadian education goals possible.
Applying for a study visa is the first step toward building your future in Canada. By understanding the 2026 PGWP updates and carefully planning, you can make the most of your education in London, ON and position yourself for professional success.
