New Immigration Pathways for Construction Workers, 2025 Express Entry Details and Other March 2025 Canada Updates

New Permanent Immigration Pathway for Construction Workers Announced

IRCC have announced new changes to Canada’s immigration system to help support housing supply and labour shortages in the industry, particularly within construction.

These changes include a new pathway to permanent residency for to to 6,000 construction workers in Canada.

It has been confirmed that this pathway will specifically target out-of-status or undocumented construction workers in the country, allowing them to legally work with protections against employer and wage abuse.

A new provision to allow qualified temporary foreign workers to study in apprenticeship programs without a study permit has also been announced.

Effective immediately, this provision will enable foreign nationals to enrol in apprenticeship programs without having to leaver the country and apply for a dedicated study permit first.

It has not yet been confirmed when the pathway to permanent residency for construction workers will be introduced, nor what the specific eligibility criteria for this program will be.

Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated: “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. The measures announced today will ensure critical infrastructure projects are completed on time, support economic development and tackle labour shortages.”

New 2025 Express Entry Category-Based Draws Announced

IRCC have announced new focus categories for 2025’s Express Entry intake.

For this year, particular focus will be given on applicants with prior experience working in Canada, as well as those who are able to help fill shortages in Francophone immigration and industry-specific workforces.

These include the following:

• Applicants with strong French language skills
• Applicants with work experience in the following fields:
  • Health care and social services, such as family physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists and chiropractors
  • Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors
  • Education, such as teachers, child care educators and instructors of persons with disabilities

Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated: “Canada’s Express Entry system is evolving to meet the country’s changing needs. By addressing labour shortages, strengthening our economy and increasing Francophone immigration, we are building a more dynamic workforce with workers and professionals from in-demand fields. Our approach ensures immigration remains a key driver of Canada’s growth, helping businesses thrive while supporting communities across the country.”

Temporary Measures for Ukrainians in Canada Extended

Measures to allow Ukrainians in Canada to work or study have been extended.

Ukrainians and their family members who arrived in Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) on or before March 31, 2024 will now have until March 31, 2026 to apply for a new open work permit, renew an existing work permit, or apply for a new study permit.

Ukrainians who wish to extend their status as a visitor or student can continue to do so in line with existing guidelines.

In addition, access to free settlement services for all Ukrainian temporary residents and their family members will continue to be available until March 31, 2025.

IRCC have stated that they will continue to assess and evaluate provisions for Ukrainians in Canada as the conflict continues.

Mark Carney Elected as Next Prime Minister of Canada; What’s Next for Canadian Immigration?

Mark Carney has been elected to become the next Canadian Prime Minister and will take over from incumbent, Justin Trudeau.

As Carney prepares to take office, many may be asking what his stances on immigration are after Trudeau’s contentious policy changes and U-turns contributed to his falling popularity and eventual resignation.

Carney’s immigration policies generally focus on stemming the rapid increase in immigration numbers into Canada, including capping international student numbers and increasing restrictions on temporary foreign workers.

These efforts are in line with the Liberal Party’s general efforts to help ease bottlenecks in employment, public services and housing across the country, which have been attributed by some sources to be a result of high immigration.

Carney is also in favour of using data-driven strategies to implement flexible immigration targets, utilising key factors such as housing supply, strain on public services and labour market shortages to help dictate future intakes.

The next Canadian federal election is due to take place in October later this year, though it may be moved earlier, especially if there is a successful vote of no confidence in parliament.

The Liberal Party’s main opposition, Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party, is known for his stricter stance on immigration and his vocal criticisms of the Liberal Party’s handling of key issues in the area.

Latest opinion polls suggest that around 40.4% of Canadians will vote for the Conservative Party in the upcoming election, while 30.8% will vote for the Liberal Party.

How Can IAS Help With Your Canadian Immigration Application?

IAS have a team of immigration consultants and caseworkers experienced in the field of Canadian immigration.

Our CICC-qualified immigration consultants can help you with numerous facets of Canadian immigration, including skilled worker, family, student or provincial-based immigration.

We can also give close guidance and support on Express Entry and the CRS, helping you to maximise your chances of being accepted for one of Canada’s prestigious immigration programmes.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help on your situation today. Call us on +1 844 290 6312 or reach out to us online.