Canada to Welcome 14,000 Construction Workers in 2025

Canada is set to welcome up to 14,000 foreign construction workers in 2025 as part of its ongoing efforts to address labor shortages in the sector. The government is implementing new policies to simplify the process for skilled workers to enter and work in the country, including a major change that allows temporary foreign workers to enroll in apprenticeship programs without needing a study permit.

Easier Access to Apprenticeship Programs for Foreign Workers

Speaking at a press conference in Woodbridge, Ontario, on March 7, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a policy update that removes the study permit requirement for foreign workers enrolling in apprenticeship programs. Previously, these workers had to secure a study permit before starting their training, leading to unnecessary delays and red tape.

This change is expected to streamline the process, allowing thousands of foreign workers to gain essential skills more quickly. It also reinforces Canada’s commitment to expanding its skilled workforce in the construction industry while tackling labor shortages that have impacted housing and infrastructure projects.

Regularization for Undocumented Construction Workers

In a bid to support workers already contributing to the industry, the government has reserved 6,000 spots for undocumented construction workers. This initiative aims to provide legal pathways for these individuals, ensuring they can continue working without uncertainty.

Many undocumented workers face employment instability, lack of access to benefits, and barriers to professional training. By regularizing their status, the government hopes to retain skilled labor while fostering a more stable workforce.

Expanding the Workforce to Address Housing Shortages

Canada increasingly relies on immigration to fill critical gaps in the construction sector, which has been a key factor in the country’s ongoing housing crisis. According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), an estimated six million additional homes are needed by 2030 to restore housing affordability.

Minister Miller emphasized the importance of attracting foreign talent, stating, “As much as we invest in training, we still cannot produce all the skilled trades and construction workers we need domestically.”

This shortage is particularly evident in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, where soaring demand and limited housing supply have driven property prices to unprecedented levels. Expanding the construction workforce is seen as essential for accelerating housing development and supporting Canada’s growing population.

Enhancements to Express Entry for Skilled Trades

To further boost the construction sector, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the Express Entry system on February 27 to prioritize skilled trade workers. The system now includes 19 additional occupations, such as:

• Construction managers
• Estimators
• Bricklayers
• Roofers
• Floor covering installers
• Painters

These changes will facilitate the entry of more qualified workers into Canada and offer them a clearer path to permanent residency.

New Advisory Council to Guide Construction Policies

Beyond immigration adjustments, the government is establishing an advisory council to shape federal construction policies. This council will focus on key issues such as workforce planning, wages, and labor market demands. By involving industry experts and stakeholders, the government aims to ensure its policies align with economic needs and long-term workforce strategies.

The council’s recommendations will play a critical role in shaping future initiatives that strengthen Canada’s construction workforce and drive economic growth.

Conclusion

As Canada works to address its housing crisis, immigration remains a key strategy for closing the labor gap in the construction industry. The latest measures—including eliminating study permit requirements for apprentices, offering pathways to legal status for undocumented workers, and expanding the Express Entry system—are designed to attract and retain skilled labor. These initiatives will not only benefit foreign workers but also contribute to the long-term growth and stability of Canada’s construction sector.