Feds looking to bring in workers 'to meet the urgent need for skilled labour,' says minister
In an effort to address Canada’s growing housing crisis and critical labour shortages in the construction industry, the federal government has announced new immigration measures designed to attract and retain skilled trades workers.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed the plans, which align with the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, emphasizing the importance of foreign workers in building the homes Canada urgently needs.
The strategy includes the creation of a tripartite advisory council, new pathways for undocumented construction workers, and eased restrictions for foreign apprentices.
The newly established council will bring together federal officials, industry leaders, and union representatives to assess labour shortages and recommend immigration pathways that will ensure a steady supply of skilled workers.
The government is aiming to implement policies that protect workers from exploitation while setting competitive wage standards to attract talent.
“Canada’s construction industry is vital to support and sustain our country’s growth, and we need to bring in workers to meet the urgent need for skilled labour,” said Miller.
In September, Ontario announced it is investing $26 million to build a new training centre at Laborers' International Union of North America (LiUNA) 183’s skilled trades training campus in Vaughan.
To build on the success of previous initiatives, such as the out-of-status construction workers pilot in the Greater Toronto Area, the government plans to introduce a pathway to regularize undocumented workers already contributing to the sector.
This initiative would allow those working in construction without legal status to remain in Canada with proper protections, helping to stabilize the workforce, says the government.
“Today’s changes will bring more skilled trades workers to work sites across Canada, fast-track building starts, and grow our economy,” said The Minister of Employment, Steven MacKinnon.
In another move aimed at streamlining the talent pipeline, the government is removing study permit requirements for foreign apprentices in construction programs.
Effective immediately, this temporary measure will allow apprentices to complete their studies faster and enter the workforce without bureaucratic delays, says the government.
This reform aligns with the government’s broader Canada’s Housing Plan, launched in 2024, which seeks to unlock millions of new homes through a multi-faceted approach that includes supporting trades development and recognizing foreign credentials.
