The Canadian government has unveiled a new immigration initiative to address labor shortages in the construction industry. The announcement, made by Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), introduces two major changes aimed at supporting the sector:
- Up to 6,000 Undocumented Construction Workers to Gain Permanent Residency: Canada will reserve immigration spots specifically for undocumented construction workers already working in the country.
- Study Permit Exemption for Skilled Trades Apprentices: Temporary foreign workers in the construction industry can now enroll in apprenticeship programs without needing a study permit.
Key Changes in Canada’s Immigration Policy for Construction Workers
The new policy, which came into effect on March 7, 2025, allows skilled workers in the construction industry to enhance their qualifications without unnecessary administrative hurdles. Previously, foreign nationals had to obtain a study permit to enroll in apprenticeship programs, but this requirement has now been waived.
Additionally, an advisory council comprising government officials, industry employers, and union representatives has been established. This council will provide recommendations on wage structures and the number of foreign construction workers Canada should admit.
Increased Immigration Spots for Construction Workers
Minister Miller confirmed that up to 14,000 foreign national construction workers may be admitted. However, it remains unclear whether this number includes only permanent residents, temporary workers, or both.
While the government has not yet disclosed full eligibility criteria for the new permanent residency pathway for construction workers, IRCC has released guidelines for the study permit exemption for skilled trades apprentices.
Why is Canada Introducing These Changes?
Canada is facing a severe labor shortage in the construction industry, which is slowing down the development of new housing. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) estimates that the country needs to build an additional 6 million homes by 2030 to address the affordability crisis.
Due to an aging workforce and a declining number of new skilled workers entering the trade, Canada has increasingly turned to immigration to fill these gaps. According to Statistics Canada, immigrants make up 23% of general contractors and residential builders in the country.
Minister Miller emphasized that Canada cannot meet its labor demands with domestic training alone. He stated, “As hard as we try, we cannot train enough skilled trades and construction workers within Canada.”
Express Entry Changes to Support Construction Workers
The latest update to the Express Entry immigration system on February 27, 2025, reflects Canada’s commitment to welcoming more skilled construction workers. The changes include:
- Trades Category Designated as a Priority for Invitations to Apply (ITAs): Express Entry now prioritizes candidates in the construction sector.
- Addition of 19 New Occupations to the Trades Category: Newly eligible occupations include:
- Construction Managers
- Construction Estimators
- Bricklayers
- Roofers and Shinglers
- Floor Covering Installers
- Painters and Decorators (excluding interior decorators)
To check the full list of eligible trades under Express Entry, visit theimmigrationprofessional.com.
Past Initiatives for Undocumented Construction Workers
The new pathway builds on past efforts to regularize the status of undocumented construction workers. In January 2020, Canada introduced a temporary public policy allowing out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to apply for permanent residency. This program, which was extended several times, officially ended on December 31, 2024.
By November 2024, the program had granted permanent residency to 1,365 out-of-status construction workers and their families.
2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan & Housing Crisis
The housing shortage has played a crucial role in shaping Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan. Housing supply concerns prompted the government to reduce overall immigration targets, particularly for temporary residents such as international students and foreign workers.
Minister Miller previously stated that reducing temporary immigration could free up an estimated 670,000 housing units, easing demand without requiring additional construction.
Additionally, a new “In-Canada Focus” immigration category was introduced. This category prioritizes candidates who are already working and living in Canada. The government aims to welcome 82,890 new permanent residents through this category in 2025, ensuring that immigration does not further strain the housing market.
If you are a foreign construction worker looking to apply for a work permit or permanent residency, professional assistance can improve your chances of success.
Schedule a Work Permit Consultation today to get expert guidance on your immigration options.
