Canada takes action to support housing with new immigration measures

March 7, 2025—Toronto—Immigration plays a crucial role in Canada’s economic growth and success. To address the increasing demand for housing, the country requires a strong workforce in construction and skilled trades, with immigrants playing a key part in filling these roles.

Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced plans to introduce new measures supporting Canada’s construction industry. These initiatives fall under the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and include forming a tripartite advisory council to evaluate industry needs and recommend pathways for skilled workers, establishing a regularization process for out-of-status construction workers, and providing support for foreign apprentices.

To tackle the housing shortage and economic uncertainties linked to tariff threats, Canada will immediately assemble an advisory council consisting of federal representatives, union members, and industry leaders. This council will assess labor shortages and provide recommendations on pathways to attract and retain construction workers, ensuring fair wages and protections against exploitation.

Building on the success of previous programs like the Greater Toronto Area pilot for out-of-status construction workers, IRCC aims to create a new pathway for undocumented construction workers who are already contributing to the sector. This initiative will provide legal status, allowing them to continue working and supporting Canada’s housing needs while ensuring proper protections.

Further details on these pathways will be announced as the advisory council develops relevant policies.

Additionally, to support foreign apprentices and meet the current labor market demands in construction, a temporary measure is being introduced, effective immediately, to allow foreign apprentices to complete their training without requiring a study permit. By eliminating this administrative hurdle, apprentices can quickly acquire the necessary skills to contribute to infrastructure projects.

With these measures, Canada is leveraging immigration to strengthen its workforce, address housing demands, and maintain sustainable immigration levels.