In a speech delivered on March 7, 2025 Honourable Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada expressed an intention to take action to support housing with new immigration measures. These measures are designed to retain, and regularize skilled construction workers, thereby bolstering the industry’s capacity to meet growing demands amidst the threat of continued tariffs and economic uncertainty.
In order to address labour shortages in the construction industry, the Federal Government is creating an advisory council of representatives from the government, labour unions and industry leaders. The purpose of this council is meant to identify needs in the workforce and recommend immigration policies to attract and retain skilled workers. It will also focus on protecting workers from being exploited and hoping to ensure fair wages.
Building upon the success of previous pilot programs, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) intends to introduce a pathway to permanent residence specifically for undocumented migrants already in Canada and working in the construction sector. This initiative acknowledges the contributions of these individuals and aims to regularize their status, allowing them to continue their work legally while, we hope, being granted proper labor protections.
In an effort to expedite the integration of skilled labour into the construction industry, a temporary measure has been introduced allowing foreign apprentices to complete their training without the need for a study permit. Effective from February 26, 2025, this exemption applies to foreign nationals who hold a valid work permit, have a job offer in an eligible construction occupation, and possess an apprenticeship agreement registered with the appropriate provincial or territorial authority. This policy aims to streamline the process for apprentices to gain the necessary skills and contribute more swiftly to infrastructure projects.
These immigration measures are meant to address labour shortages in the construction industry, which is crucial for addressing Canada’s housing supply challenges. By facilitating the entry and retention of skilled construction workers, these initiatives aim to accelerate housing development and support economic growth.
We are eager to see how these new immigration programs for construction workers will take shape and what opportunities they will provide for skilled tradespeople looking to build their future in Canada. As the details unfold, these initiatives could offer significant pathways to stability and permanent residence for workers in the industry.
On March 14, 2025 however Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney removed immigration minister Marc Miller from his cabinet, and swore in Rachel Bendayan as the new Minister of Immigration. We look forward to seeing if and how this change in cabinet shapes immigration programs going forward.
If you are a construction worker or skilled tradesperson seeking immigration support, whether for regularization, work permits, or permanent residence, reach out to us. Our team is here to guide you through the process. Contact us today.
