Canada is set to admit up to 14,000 foreign construction workers in 2025 as part of its strategy to tackle labor shortages in the industry. The government is making it easier for skilled workers to enter and work in Canada by introducing new policies, including allowing temporary foreign workers to join apprenticeship programs without requiring a study permit.
Easier Pathway for Foreign Apprentices
At a press conference in Woodbridge, Ontario, on March 7, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a significant policy change. Effective immediately, foreign workers who qualify for apprenticeship programs will no longer need a study permit. Previously, these workers had to apply for a study permit before beginning their training, which added bureaucratic hurdles and delays. The change is expected to help thousands of workers gain the necessary skills more efficiently.
This policy update aligns with Canada’s commitment to increasing its skilled workforce in the construction sector. It also reflects the government’s efforts to address labor shortages that have slowed down infrastructure and housing development projects.
Support for Undocumented Construction Workers
The immigration department has also allocated 6,000 spots for undocumented construction workers. This initiative aims to provide a pathway for those already contributing to the industry but lacking legal status. By regularizing their stay, the government hopes to retain experienced workers and improve stability in the workforce.
Undocumented workers often face challenges such as job insecurity, lack of benefits, and difficulty accessing training programs. With this new measure, many will have a chance to secure their status and continue working legally in Canada’s construction industry.
Boosting Construction Workforce Amid Housing Shortages
Canada is increasingly relying on immigration to fill critical labor gaps in construction. The shortage of skilled workers has been a major factor in the country’s ongoing housing crisis. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), an additional six million homes are required by 2030 to restore affordability levels.
Miller emphasized the importance of bringing in foreign talent, stating, “As hard as we try, we cannot train all the skilled trades and construction workers we need here in Canada.”
The shortage is particularly concerning in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, where high demand and limited housing supply have led to skyrocketing prices. Expanding the construction workforce is seen as a key solution to accelerating housing development and keeping up with population growth.
Expansion of Express Entry for Skilled Trades
To further support the construction industry, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made changes to the Express Entry system on February 27. The system now prioritizes skilled trade workers by adding 19 new occupations to the list of eligible professions. These include:
- Construction managers
- Estimators
- Bricklayers
- Roofers
- Floor covering installers
- Painters
These changes will help attract more qualified workers to Canada, making it easier for them to secure permanent residency.
New Advisory Council for Construction Policy
Alongside immigration changes, the government is forming an advisory council to guide federal construction policies. This council will focus on key areas such as worker intake, wages, and overall labor market needs. By involving industry experts and stakeholders, the government aims to ensure its immigration policies align with economic demands and workforce planning.
The council’s recommendations are expected to shape future policies that will continue to strengthen Canada’s construction workforce and support economic growth.
Conclusion
With Canada’s ambitious goal of addressing its housing crisis, immigration remains a crucial tool in bridging the labor gap in construction. The new measures, including waiving study permit requirements for apprentices, allocating spots for undocumented workers, and expanding the Express Entry system, are all designed to attract and retain skilled talent. These efforts will not only benefit foreign workers but also contribute to the long-term stability and growth of the construction sector in Canada.