On March 7, 2025, Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced new opportunities for workers in the construction sector, including:
- A streamlined pathway to permanent residency (PR);
- Removal of the requirement for a study permit for construction workers undergoing vocational training.
These changes aim to address the severe labour shortage in Canada’s construction industry. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the country needs to build 6 million homes by 2030 to meet housing demand.
Key Policy Changes for Construction Workers
- Up to 6,000 places allocated for undocumented construction workers to regularize their status;
- Foreign workers are now allowed to study without a separate study permit;
- Up to 14,000 new construction workers from abroad will be admitted to Canada;
- A Construction Advisory Council has been established to improve the national strategy for the industry.
What Will Change for Construction Workers?
Previously, foreign nationals with temporary permits were not allowed to attend vocational colleges without a separate study permit.
Now, this barrier has been lifted.
Benefits include:
- Opportunity to study officially and obtain a Canadian diploma;
- Skills upgrading and higher chances of receiving PR;
- Safer, more transparent working conditions;
- Access to healthcare, social services, and formal wages.
What About Undocumented Construction Workers Already in Canada?
Up to 6,000 undocumented workers currently employed in construction will be able to:
- Apply for PR and legalize their status;
- Work legally without fear of deportation;
- Receive full labour rights and benefits;
- Get hired without legal restrictions.
Why Does This Matter for Canada?
Canada’s construction sector has historically relied on immigrants. According to Statistics Canada, 23% of construction workers are immigrants. However, earlier immigration programs were not sufficient to meet labour needs.
These new measures will:
- Close the labour gap in the construction sector;
- Accelerate housing development;
- Offer fair working conditions and a PR pathway for foreign workers.
Which Construction Occupations Are Now a Priority?
On February 27, 2025, the Canadian government expanded the list of priority occupations under Express Entry.
Newly added in-demand construction professions include:
- Construction project managers;
- Construction estimators;
- Bricklayers;
- Roofers;
- Floor covering installers;
- Painters and decorators.
What Happened to the Previous Legalization Program?
In 2020, Canada launched a pilot program for construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
It officially closed on December 31, 2024.
By that time, 1,365 workers and their families received PR.
Now, the program has been expanded nationwide, and the number of available spots will significantly increase.
What Should Construction Workers Do to Apply for PR?
- Monitor IRCC updates, as the full program details are yet to be released;
- Prepare documentation proving construction experience in Canada;
- Consider vocational training in construction colleges if you hold a work permit;
- Apply through Express Entry if your occupation is listed in the category-based selection stream.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s construction sector is facing an acute labour shortage, and the government has introduced bold new pathways for foreign workers.
- Construction workers can now access easier and faster routes to PR;
- Undocumented workers have a chance to legalize their status;
- Canada is actively looking to attract more qualified professionals to support its housing and infrastructure goals.
If you work in construction and want to immigrate, now is the best time to act.
