On March 7, 2025, IRCC announced significant new immigration measures aimed at bolstering Canada’s construction industry.
Recognizing the critical role immigration plays in the nation’s economic development, these initiatives are part of the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and are designed to address the pressing need for skilled labor in the construction sector amidst an ongoing housing crisis. One of the pivotal components of this announcement is the establishment of a tripartite advisory council. This council will consist of representatives from the federal government, labor unions, and industry leaders, tasked with evaluating the current labor demands within the construction industry. Their role will be to provide recommendations on pathways to attract and retain skilled construction workers, ensuring that these measures include robust protections against exploitation and a strong wage threshold for workers. In addition to this advisory council, the government is introducing a regularization pathway for undocumented construction workers. This initiative aims to provide legal status to those already contributing to the sector, thus allowing them to continue their work legally while receiving necessary protections. This move builds on the success of previous pilot programs, such as the one for out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area, and aims to formalize the status of individuals who have been integral to the construction workforce.
Furthermore, to enhance the training of future skilled trades workers, the government is implementing a temporary measure that allows foreign apprentices to complete their studies without the need for a study permit. This change is intended to eliminate administrative barriers, thereby enabling apprentices to acquire essential skills more swiftly, which in turn will support ongoing infrastructure projects across Canada. The overarching goal of these measures is to ensure that Canada can meet its housing needs effectively while maintaining sustainable immigration levels. Minister Miller emphasized the importance of a strong construction workforce in supporting the nation’s growth and completing critical infrastructure projects on time. He highlighted that these changes will not only address labor shortages but also contribute to economic development. Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, echoed these sentiments, stating that the measures will expedite the arrival of skilled trades workers to construction sites, thus facilitating quicker building starts and fostering economic growth. Statistics underscore the significance of immigrants in Canada’s construction sector, with data indicating that they represent 23% of all general contractors and residential builders.
As of November 2024, approximately 1,365 permanent residents had been admitted through the out-of-status construction workers pathway, reflecting the tangible impact of these initiatives. Additionally, these immigration measures are part of a broader strategy outlined in Canada’s Housing Plan, which aims to address the housing crisis through a comprehensive government approach. This plan focuses on increasing housing availability, enhancing rental and ownership opportunities, and supporting Canadians who struggle to afford housing.
It also includes the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy and the Foreign Credential Recognition Program, both aimed at developing a skilled, inclusive, and productive trades workforce to meet housing demands. In conclusion, the government’s new immigration measures represent a proactive approach to addressing the critical labor shortages in Canada’s construction industry. By fostering pathways for skilled immigrants and supporting existing workers, Canada aims to build the necessary infrastructure to sustain its economic growth and meet the urgent housing needs of its population. Further details regarding these initiatives will be disseminated as the advisory council convenes and develops its policies.
Source: Canada.ca