Canada Announces Major Immigration Changes to Support Construction Workers
Canada has introduced significant updates to its immigration policies aimed at addressing labor shortages in the construction industry. These changes, announced by Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), are expected to provide new opportunities for construction workers, both within Canada and internationally.
Key Changes in Immigration for Construction Workers
- Reserving up to 6,000 Immigration Spaces for Undocumented Construction Workers
- This new policy will allow thousands of undocumented construction workers in Canada to gain permanent residency (PR). The details regarding eligibility criteria and application processes have yet to be fully disclosed.
- Temporary Foreign Workers Can Study in Apprenticeships Without a Study Permit
- Previously, foreign workers had to obtain a study permit before enrolling in apprenticeship programs. This change removes that barrier, allowing workers to enhance their skills and contribute more effectively to Canada’s construction industry.
- Creation of a Construction Advisory Council
- A newly established council will guide government policies on construction labor needs. The council will include representatives from government agencies, labor unions, and industry employers.
- Potential Admission of Up to 14,000 Foreign Construction Workers
- Canada is looking to admit a significant number of skilled construction workers, although it remains unclear whether these will be through permanent or temporary pathways.
Why These Changes Are Necessary
Canada is facing a major labor shortage in the construction sector, exacerbated by a growing housing crisis.
- The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) estimates that an additional 6 million homes need to be built by 2030 to meet demand.
- 23% of general contractors and residential builders in Canada’s construction industry are immigrants, highlighting the critical role of foreign workers.
- Minister Miller stated that, despite efforts to train workers domestically, Canada cannot meet its labor needs without immigration.
Express Entry and Trades Category Expansion
In addition to the policy changes, the IRCC has made updates to the Express Entry system to prioritize skilled tradespeople.
- On February 27, 2025, IRCC introduced 19 new occupations to the Express Entry trades category, making it easier for skilled construction workers to obtain PR.
- The newly added occupations include:
- Construction managers
- Construction estimators
- Bricklayers
- Roofers and shinglers
- Floor covering installers
- Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
These changes align with Canada’s goal of attracting workers who can immediately contribute to the housing and infrastructure sectors.
Previous Measures for Undocumented Construction Workers
Canada has previously introduced programs to help out-of-status construction workers gain PR. In January 2020, IRCC launched a temporary policy allowing undocumented construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to apply for PR. This policy was extended multiple times before expiring on December 31, 2024.
- By November 2024, about 1,365 out-of-status construction workers and their dependents had secured PR through this program.
- The new initiative announced in March 2025 builds on this success and expands the opportunity to more workers across Canada.
2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan & Housing Concerns
Housing affordability has been a central issue in shaping Canada’s immigration policies.
- The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan aims to balance immigration intake with available housing supply.
- In response to housing challenges, Canada plans to reduce the number of temporary residents while still prioritizing skilled workers already in the country.
- Minister Miller estimated that reducing temporary resident admissions could free up 670,000 housing units, easing some of the housing shortages.
To address these concerns, Canada has introduced an “In-Canada Focus” category for immigration.
- This category prioritizes candidates already living and working in Canada, ensuring that new PR landings do not further strain housing resources.
- The IRCC has set a target of 82,890 new PR landings through this pathway in 2025.
Impact on the Construction Industry and Foreign Workers
These changes will have a broad impact on Canada’s construction industry, benefiting both employers and workers:
- For Employers: More skilled workers will be available to fill labor shortages, improving construction timelines and productivity.
- For Workers: Easier access to PR and apprenticeship programs provides better job security, higher wages, and long-term career opportunities.
- For the Housing Market: With more skilled workers available, housing projects could accelerate, potentially stabilizing housing prices.
How to Apply for These Immigration Pathways
While official details on the application process for PR spaces and study permit exemptions are still pending, interested workers should prepare by:
- Gathering Documentation – Proof of work experience, employment records, and residency history.
- Checking Eligibility – Stay updated on government announcements regarding specific criteria.
- Consulting Immigration Experts – Seeking professional advice can help streamline the application process.
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