Canada to Admit 14,000 Construction Workers in 2025
Canada Opening Doors to More Construction Workers
Canada will admit as many as 14,000 foreign construction workers in 2025 to help fill labor gaps in the sector. The government is facilitating the entry and employment of skilled workers in Canada by introducing new measures, such as enabling foreign apprentices to train without requiring a study permit.
Simplified Apprenticeship Process for Foreign Workers
Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced on March 7 in Woodbridge, Ontario, that foreign workers entering apprenticeship programs are no longer required to have a study permit. This requirement previously led to delays and unnecessary paperwork. Now, workers can begin training sooner, enabling them to acquire skills and contribute to Canada‘s workforce more effectively.
Helping Undocumented Construction Workers
The government is also opening a door for 6,000 illegal construction workers to regularize their status. They are already part of the industry but experience job uncertainty and have no access to benefits. Regularizing their status is expected to help Canada retain skilled workers and stabilize the workforce.
Solving the Housing Shortage
Canada is in a severe housing crisis, and a lack of skilled labor is exacerbating it. The nation requires six million additional homes by 2030 to regain affordability, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reports. The shortage is particularly acute in Toronto and Vancouver, where housing costs are skyrocketing.
Miller pointed out that Canada is not able to train sufficient labor domestically and must import talent to respond to increasing demands in construction.
More Opportunities for Skilled Trades Workers
To attract more skilled workers, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently expanded the Express Entry system. As of February 27, 19 new construction-related occupations have been added to the list of eligible professions, including:
- Construction managers
- Estimators
- Bricklayers
- Roofers
- Floor covering installers
- Painters
These changes will make it easier for skilled trade workers to move to Canada and gain permanent residency.
New Advisory Council for Construction Industry
The government is also forming an advisory council to help shape construction policies. This group will focus on worker intake, wages, and labor market needs to ensure immigration policies align with economic demands.
Final Thoughts
With labor shortages slowing down construction projects, Canada is taking strong steps to attract and retain skilled workers. The new measures—waiving study permits for apprentices, providing opportunities for undocumented workers, and expanding the Express Entry system—will help strengthen Canada’s construction industry while addressing the housing crisis. These efforts will benefit both workers and the country’s economy in the long run. For further assistance please contact Asif Consulting.
