Canada’s New Construction Worker Program: Path to Permanent Residency

In response to Canada’s increasing demand for construction workers because of the recent and ongoing housing shortages, today the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), announced new immigration pathways for foreign construction apprentices and out-of-status construction workers.

Immigration Levels Plan

This initiative aligns with the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan which highlighted Canada’s labour shortages. Not only will this program address the ongoing labour shortages in our country but will also offer applicants a promising path to Canadian permanent residency.

Background

As of November 2024, the Government of Canada reports that around 1,365 permanent residents, principal applicants and their dependents, have been accepted into Canada through the out-of-status construction workers pathway, demonstrating the pathway’s simple and accessible route to Canadian permanent residency.

New Construction Worker Immigration Pathways

In addition to targeting foreign construction apprentices and out-of-status construction workers, the Canadian government also hinted at introducing pathways for undocumented migrants working in the construction industry. By doing so, the government provides a solution to not only the increasing labour shortages in the sector, but also betters the life of undocumented migrants who already work in the construction sector because they will now have the chance to apply for permanent residency and remain in Canada legally.

No Work Permit Required

As part of today’s announcement, effective March 7, 2025, the Government of Canada kickstarted its initiative for addressing the need for skilled workers in the construction sector by introducing a temporary measure that allows foreign construction apprentices to complete their studies without needing a study permit. Because of this temporary measure, construction apprentices will be able to gain the essential skills they need faster which in turn, allows them to start contributing to timely Canadian construction projects faster as well.

Tripartite Advisory Council

To help establish and put this program into effect, the IRCC stated that they will be acquiring a tripartite advisory council. A tripartite advisory council is essentially a group of individuals who come together from the private sector and from the public sector such as labour unions to discuss and provide advice on employment and economic policies. In regard to the new immigration pathways for construction workers, the council will focus on effectively addressing Canada’s labour needs within the construction sector and offer professional guidance and input on the development of potential immigration pathways that will not only attract skilled workers but also ensure their long-term retention in the Country’s construction industry. Ensuring fair wages and protection against exploitation will be central to the council’s recommendations.

Need for Immigrants

This new plan addresses the ongoing labour shortages in Canada’s construction sector. With the country struggling to meet domestic demand for trained construction workers, skilled immigrants are seen as a key solution to filling these critical roles and supporting Canada’s broader economic growth. According to Statistics Canada, the 80% job vacancy increase in 2021 alone in relation to pre Covid-19 pandemic times, demonstrates the increasing importance of immigration to the Canadian labour market. Another study by Statistics Canada also emphasizes that immigrants are making vital contributions across multiple sectors of Canada’s economy. Over time, immigrants’ continued contributions will be crucial in balancing workforce needs across various industries and regions, providing long-term support for Canada’s economy.

With more updates to come, we will be closely monitoring the situation and will announce the launch of the new immigration pathways for construction workers as more details unfold. To make sure you do not miss important updates and announcements, subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page.

If you are a construction worker interested in Canadian permanent residency, this is an opportunity you do not want to miss!