Canada Introduces New PR Pathway for Construction Workers.
Canada has unveiled a game-changing opportunity for construction workers seeking permanent residency (PR). To tackle labor shortages in the construction sector, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new measures on March 7, 2025. This update brings new hope for skilled tradespeople and temporary foreign workers alike.
Table of Contents
Overview of the New PR Pathway
Key Benefits for Construction Workers
Impact on Canada’s Construction Industry
Skilled Trades Now Prioritized in Express Entry
Advisory Council on Construction
Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2025-2027
How Wave Visas Immigration Can Help
1. Overview of the New PR Pathway
The Canadian government is reserving immigration spaces for up to 6,000 undocumented construction workers living in Canada. Additionally, temporary foreign workers can now enroll in apprenticeship programs without needing a study permit — a restriction that previously limited many from upgrading their skills.
2. Key Benefits for Construction Workers
No Study Permit Required: Temporary foreign workers can now join apprenticeship programs without the hassle of applying for a study permit.
More Opportunities for Undocumented Workers: Canada is keeping spaces open for 6,000 undocumented construction workers to apply for PR.
Faster Path to Permanent Residency: With a focus on skilled trades, construction workers now have a clearer route to obtaining Canadian PR.
3. Impact on Canada’s Construction Industry
Canada’s construction sector is facing severe labor shortages, leading to delays in housing projects. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) estimates 6 million new homes are needed by 2030 to restore housing affordability.
Immigrants make up 23% of general contractors and residential builders in Canada. Minister Marc Miller acknowledged the country’s struggle to train enough local workers, emphasizing the need for skilled international tradespeople.
4. Skilled Trades Now Prioritized in Express Entry
In a significant update on February 27, 2025, IRCC expanded the Express Entry system, adding 19 new occupations under the Trades Category, including:
Construction managers
Bricklayers
Roofers and shinglers
Painters and decorators
Floor covering installers
This change aims to attract more skilled construction workers, helping to ease workforce shortages.
5. Advisory Council on Construction
To support these changes, Canada is forming an Advisory Council on Construction, comprising government officials, unions, and industry leaders. Their focus will include:
Determining fair wages for construction workers
Recommending the number of foreign workers needed
Minister Miller also revealed that Canada may admit up to 14,000 foreign construction workers — though whether this will be via temporary or permanent pathways is yet to be confirmed.
6. Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2025-2027
Canada’s latest Immigration Levels Plan aims to balance immigration with the current housing crisis. The newly introduced “In-Canada Focus” category prioritizes applicants already residing in Canada.
By 2025, IRCC plans to grant 82,890 immigrants permanent residency under this category. While overall immigration levels are expected to decrease, these targeted measures show the government’s commitment to solving labor shortages and supporting the construction industry.
7. How Wave Visas Immigration Can Help
Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex — but Wave Visas Immigration is here to simplify the process for you.
Our expert consultants specialize in helping skilled workers, tradespeople, and temporary foreign workers achieve their dream of Canadian permanent residency. Whether you’re an undocumented worker, a tradesperson looking to upgrade skills, or someone hoping to benefit from the new Express Entry changes — Wave Visas Immigration has got your back.
Ready to build a brighter future in Canada? Contact Wave Visas Immigration today for a free consultation and personalized guidance on your PR journey.
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