Canada unveiled on February 27, 2025, a major shift in its Express Entry immigration program, introducing new category-based draws. These changes prioritize candidates already in Canada and target critical sectors like construction that are facing severe labor shortages.
For skilled immigrants working in construction, this announcement signals fresh opportunities to become permanent residents. At the same time, Canada’s construction industry stands to benefit from easier access to a stable, homegrown workforce to help build the homes and infrastructure the country needs.
- Canada’s 2025 Express Entry Policy Shift
- Why the Construction Industry?
- Opportunities for Immigrants in Construction
- Impact on Canadian Construction Companies
- Steps for Immigrants and Employers
- Conclusion: Building Canada’s Future with Skilled Immigrants
Canada’s 2025 Express Entry Policy Shift
Express Entry is evolving to meet Canada’s labor needs. On February 27, 2025, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced new category-based selection criteria to address workforce shortages. For 2025, more Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates—those with skilled work experience in Canada—will receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.
IRCC also introduced specific categories targeting high-demand fields. A new Education category was added, while categories for French-speakers, health care, and skilled trades were reaffirmed. Express Entry will now prioritize top candidates in these fields through dedicated draws. The construction industry is a key focus, recognized as a priority sector for skilled immigration. For a deeper understanding of how Express Entry targets key industries like construction in 2025, check out the full breakdown of Express Entry priorities in 2025.
Why the Construction Industry?
Canada’s construction sector faces 93,000 unfilled jobs, with projections showing a need for 500,000 workers by 2030. An aging workforce and rising demand have made construction a priority in Express Entry’s 2025 category-based draws.
The 2025 category-based draws specifically include skilled trades occupations integral to construction, ensuring immigration directly addresses these shortages. In fact, “trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors” are explicitly listed among the targeted fields for Express Entry invitations.
By fast-tracking qualified tradespeople into permanent residency, Canada is channeling talent into construction sites where it’s needed most. Simply put, prioritizing construction workers through immigration helps tackle project delays, controls rising costs, and supports Canada’s ambitious housing goals. The policy sends a clear message: if you have skills in construction, Canada has a permanent place for you in its workforce.
Opportunities for Immigrants in Construction
Canada’s new Express Entry draws open major opportunities for construction workers. If you have hands-on experience, your path to permanent residency (PR) is now easier. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates with at least one year of skilled work in Canada will see more invitations, benefiting those on temporary work permits.
The new trades category offers a fast-track PR route. Eligible candidates with 6 months of full-time experience in a listed construction trade—gained in Canada or abroad—can qualify. Key roles include electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, and heavy equipment mechanics.
Provincial programs also align with these changes. Many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) have construction-focused streams. A nomination adds 600 CRS points, guaranteeing an ITA. Whether through CEC, Federal Skilled Trades (FST), category-based draws, or PNPs, construction workers now have multiple PR pathways.
Impact on Canadian Construction Companies
Canada’s new policy eases hiring for construction firms struggling with skilled trades shortages. Many employers rely on temporary permits, but with more workers gaining PR, they can retain talent without visa concerns or LMIA hurdles.
Category-based immigration expands the talent pool, bringing more qualified tradespeople. Businesses will find hiring easier, with PR newcomers filling roles like electricians and HVAC technicians.
Steps for Immigrants and Employers
For Immigrants in Construction:
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Assess Your Eligibility: Determine which Express Entry program fits you best (CEC, FST, or PNPs).
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Prepare Your Documents: Gather proof of work experience, trade certifications, and language test results.
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Create an Express Entry Profile: Enter the pool and select the correct NOC code for your trade.
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Stay Informed and Improve Your Score: Follow draw updates, enhance your CRS score, and explore provincial options.
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Respond to Invitations Promptly: Submit your PR application within 60 days if you receive an ITA.
Guidance for Construction Employers:
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Support Your Workers’ PR Goals: Provide reference letters and job offers to boost their CRS scores.
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Leverage the Talent Pipeline: Engage with immigrant job boards and settlement agencies.
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Collaborate with Provincial Programs: Utilize employer-driven streams in PNPs.
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Plan for Training and Certification: Assist workers in obtaining Red Seal certification and local credentials.
Conclusion: Building Canada’s Future with Skilled Immigrants
Canada’s 2025 Express Entry reforms directly address labor shortages, prioritizing in-Canada applicants and construction trades. This opens more opportunities for skilled immigrants and strengthens Canada’s workforce.
Both immigrants and businesses must stay informed. AskAïa offers a free Express Entry assessment to help identify the best immigration pathways. Whether you're a tradesperson seeking PR or an employer looking to hire skilled workers, this tool provides tailored recommendations to navigate the latest changes efficiently.
