Canada Takes Action to Support Housing with New Immigration Measures

Canada Takes Action to Support Housing with New Immigration Measures

March 7, 2025—Toronto

Immigration has long been a key driver of Canada’s economic growth, and with the ongoing housing crisis, it is more important than ever to strengthen the country’s skilled workforce. Recognizing this need, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced new immigration measures that will help address Canada’s housing challenges by bringing in skilled construction workers. These initiatives fall under the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and aim to boost the construction sector through streamlined immigration pathways and enhanced workforce support.

Key Measures Announced

1. Tripartite Advisory Council for Construction Industry
   The Canadian government will establish a tripartite advisory council consisting of federal representatives, union leaders, and industry experts. This council will assess workforce requirements and propose new immigration pathways to attract and retain skilled workers, ensuring fair wages and worker protections.

2. Regularization Pathway for Out-of-Status Construction Workers
   To support undocumented workers already contributing to Canada’s construction sector, the government plans to create a pathway for them to obtain legal status. This initiative builds on the success of previous programs, such as the out-of-status construction workers pilot in the Greater Toronto Area, which has already granted permanent residency to over 1,365 individuals.

3. Support for Foreign Apprentices
   In a significant policy shift, foreign apprentices in construction programs will now be able to complete their training without requiring a study permit. This temporary measure removes bureaucratic hurdles, allowing apprentices to quickly gain the skills needed to contribute to infrastructure projects across the country.

Why These Measures Matter

Canada is facing a housing shortage, and a skilled construction workforce is essential to meeting the growing demand for homes. By addressing labor shortages and improving pathways for skilled workers, these immigration measures will:

• Accelerate the completion of housing projects

• Strengthen protections for workers

• Support economic growth and infrastructure development

Canada’s Broader Housing Plan

These new immigration measures align with Solving the Housing Crisis: Canada’s Housing Plan, a government initiative launched in 2024. The housing plan includes:

• The Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, which focuses on developing an inclusive and skilled trades workforce.

• The Foreign Credential Recognition Program, which streamlines credential recognition for skilled immigrants in the residential construction sector.

How LEAMSS Can Help

At LEAMSS, we are dedicated to helping individuals navigate Canada’s evolving immigration policies. Whether you are a skilled tradesperson looking for work opportunities in Canada or an undocumented worker seeking legal status, our team of experts can guide you through the application process. Contact us today to learn more about how you can take advantage of these new pathways!