IRCC announces a freeze on PGWP-eligible study fields for 2026. Plus, (BC PNP Fee) new BC PNP application fees and the latest LMIA approval statistics.
Strategic Updates in Canada’s Immigration Landscape: PGWP Stability and BC PNP Fee Revisions
As we move further into 2026, the Canadian government is focusing on policy stability and cost adjustments within its immigration framework.
From a critical freeze on study program eligibility for international students to updated provincial fees in the West, these changes aim to provide a clearer, albeit more expensive, pathway for newcomers.
IRCC Announces Freeze on PGWP-Eligible Courses for 2026
In a move to provide stability for international students, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially announced a freeze on the list of study fields eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for the remainder of 2026.
What students need to know:
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No Changes: No new programs will be added to or removed from the current list of eligible CIP codes this year.
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Planning Security: Students already enrolled in qualifying programs can rest assured that their eligibility status will not change before 2027.
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Action Step: Prospective students should verify their chosen Study Permits and program codes immediately to ensure they remain eligible for a work permit after graduation.
British Columbia Updates BC PNP Application Fees | BC PNP Fee Update
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) has revised its fee structure effective January 22, 2026. This update affects all workers applying through the Skills Immigration streams.
New Fee Structure:
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Skills Immigration Application Fee: $1,750 CAD (Applies to Skilled Worker, Entry Level, Semi-Skilled, and Health Authority streams).
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Review Requests: $500 CAD.
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Registration: Remains Free of charge.
While the fees have increased, the BC PNP remains one of the most direct and effective pathways to Permanent Residence Canada for those addressing the province’s urgent labour market needs.
122,000 LMIAs Approved: A Deep Dive into 2025 Statistics
Data from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) shows that over 122,000 Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) were approved in the first three quarters of 2025.
Provincial Breakdown (Q3 2025):
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Ontario: 11,392 approvals (Leading the country).
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Quebec: 7,811 approvals.
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British Columbia: 6,336 approvals.
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Saskatchewan & Manitoba: 752 and 452 approvals, respectively.
These figures indicate that despite policy “rebalancing,” there is still a significant demand for Skilled Workers across various sectors, particularly in Ontario and Quebec.
Federal Court Allows Challenge to Safe Third Country Agreement
In a significant legal development, the Federal Court has allowed a challenge to the Safe Third Country Agreement to proceed. Refugee advocacy groups are seeking transparency regarding how the US is designated a “safe country.” This ruling could have long-term implications for Refugees Outside Canada and the bilateral pact between Canada and the United States.
Why Choose Go Canada Services?
Go Canada Services (est. 2004) is the only Canadian Incorporation providing holistic Academic, Immigration, Integration, and Legal Services. We help you navigate shifting fees and eligibility rules with precision.
Our Core Services:
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Permanent Residence Canada: Strategic planning for BC PNP and other provincial pathways.
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Study Permits: Expert guidance on selecting PGWP-eligible programs.
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Family Sponsorship: Reunited families through legal expertise.
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Free Immigration Assessment: Evaluate your 2026 profile under the latest fee and course rules.
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Contact Our Experts: Personalized legal advice for LMIA applications and PGWP eligibility.
Important Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | BC PNP Fee Update
1. Will the list of PGWP-eligible courses change in 2026? No, IRCC has frozen the list of eligible study fields (CIP codes) for the remainder of 2026. No changes will be made until at least 2027.
2. How much does it cost to apply for the BC PNP in 2026? As of January 22, 2026, the application fee for Skills Immigration streams is $1,750 CAD.
3. Which province approved the most LMIAs in late 2025? Ontario led the way with over 11,000 positive LMIAs issued in the third quarter of 2025.
4. Can I still register for the BC PNP for free? Yes, the registration process for the BC PNP expression of interest remains free of charge.
5. What is the Safe Third Country Agreement challenge about? The legal challenge seeks transparency and a review of whether the United States still meets the criteria of a “safe country” for asylum seekers.
6. How do I know if my study program is PGWP-eligible? You must check your program’s specific CIP code against the current IRCC list. You can Contact Our Experts for assistance with this verification.
7. Is there a fee to request a review of a BC PNP decision? Yes, a review request for a BC PNP decision now costs $500 CAD.
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Plan Your Future with Certainty
With a freeze on PGWP courses and rising provincial fees, knowing your exact eligibility is more important than ever. Let Go Canada Services help you navigate the 2026 rules.