Canada has introduced a new study permit exemption for temporary foreign workers in the construction industry. This policy allows eligible workers to enroll in apprenticeship programs without needing a study permit. Announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller on March 7, 2025, this temporary public policy aims to address Canada’s growing demand for skilled construction workers and help alleviate the housing crisis.
The new policy came into effect on February 26, 2025, and will remain active until February 26, 2027. If you’re a temporary foreign worker in the construction sector, this could be your chance to gain valuable skills and advance your career in Canada.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this study permit exemption, including:
- Who is eligible for the exemption;
- Which construction occupations qualify; and
- How to apply for the exemption.
Let’s dive in!
Who Is Eligible for the Study Permit Exemption?
To qualify for the study permit exemption, you must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Valid Work Permit: You must already have a valid work permit in Canada.
- Have a Job Offer in an Eligible Construction Occupation: Your job offer must be in one of the construction occupations listed under this policy.
- Have a Registered Apprenticeship Agreement: You must have an apprenticeship agreement with your employer that is registered with the appropriate provincial or territorial authority.
If you meet these requirements, you can enroll in an apprenticeship program without needing a study permit.
Which Construction Occupations Are Eligible?
The study permit exemption applies to specific construction occupations that are in high demand across Canada. These occupations are classified under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system. Below is a list of eligible occupations and their corresponding NOC codes:
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Bricklayers | 72320 |
| Cabinetmakers | 72311 |
| Carpenters | 72310 |
| Civil engineering technologists and technicians | 22300 |
| Civil engineers | 21300 |
| Concrete finishers | 73100 |
| Construction estimators | 22303 |
| Construction managers | 70010 |
| Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics | 72400 |
| Electrical mechanics | 72422 |
| Electricians (except industrial and power system) | 72200 |
| Floor covering installers | 73113 |
| Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics | 72402 |
| Heavy-duty equipment mechanics | 72401 |
| Home building and renovation managers | 70011 |
| Industrial electricians | 72201 |
| Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) | 73112 |
| Plumbers | 72300 |
| Roofers and shinglers | 73110 |
| Sheet metal workers | 72102 |
| Water well drillers | 72501 |
| Welders and related machine operators | 72106 |
To determine if your job qualifies, you’ll need to compare your job duties to the duties listed under the NOC code. Your job must involve at least 51% of the duties listed in the NOC lead statement.
How to Apply for the Study Permit Exemption
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the study permit exemption by following these steps:
- Submit an Online Request: When submitting your request, include the phrase “Apprenticeship 25-27” in the explanation box under the “Tell us about your request” section.
- Provide Required Documents: Ensure you have a valid work permit, a job offer in an eligible occupation, and a registered apprenticeship agreement.
- Wait for Authorization: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a letter of authorization to study without a permit.
The authorization letter will remain valid until the earliest of the following:
- The expiry of your work permit;
- The expiry of the temporary public policy (February 26, 2027); or
- The revocation of the temporary public policy.
Why Was This Policy Introduced?
Canada is facing a severe shortage of skilled construction workers, which has contributed to the ongoing housing crisis. By allowing temporary foreign workers to enroll in apprenticeship programs without a study permit, the government aims to:
- Increase the supply of skilled construction workers;
- Simplify the process for workers to transition between work and study periods; and
- Support the construction industry in meeting its labor demands.
This policy also aligns with Canada’s broader immigration goals of attracting and retaining skilled workers to support economic growth.
New Permanent Residence Pathway for Construction Workers
In addition to the study permit exemption, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a new pathway to permanent residence (PR) for construction workers. This pathway will reserve up to 6,000 spots for undocumented construction workers already in Canada and could admit up to 14,000 permanent residents.
While specific eligibility criteria for this PR pathway have not yet been released, it represents a significant opportunity for construction workers to secure permanent residency in Canada.
What This Means for Temporary Foreign Workers
If you’re a temporary foreign worker in the construction industry, this study permit exemption opens up new opportunities for career advancement. By enrolling in an apprenticeship program, you can gain valuable skills, improve your job prospects, and potentially qualify for permanent residency.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with your application, consider scheduling a Study permit consultation with an immigration professional.
