Express Entry Trades Category: New Opportunities in 2025
On February 27, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) revamped the Express Entry system to address Canada’s growing demand for skilled construction workers. The updated trades category now prioritizes Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for trade occupations and adds 19 new eligible roles, including:
- Construction managers
- Construction estimators
- Bricklayers
- Roofers and shinglers
- Floor covering installers
- Painters and decorators (non-interior)
Visit Method Immigration for the full list of qualifying occupations and how these changes could benefit you.
Regularization Pathway for Out-of-Status Construction Workers
IRCC continues to support out-of-status construction workers with a new regularization program, building on a successful 2020 initiative in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). That temporary policy, which ended December 31, 2024, helped approximately 1,365 people—workers and their families—secure permanent residency by November 2024. The latest pathway reflects Canada’s ongoing need for construction talent and appreciation for their contributions.
2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan: Housing in Focus
Canada’s housing crisis is shaping immigration policy. Unveiling the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Immigration Minister Miller announced lower targets for permanent and temporary residents, like international students and foreign workers, to ease housing pressures. Minister Miller estimated that reducing temporary residents could free up around 670,000 housing units—no new construction required.
This focus also introduces the “In-Canada Focus” category, prioritizing permanent residency for candidates already in Canada with local experience. IRCC aims to welcome 82,890 new permanent residents in 2025 under this approach, balancing labour needs with housing realities.
Ready to navigate these changes? Contact Method Immigration today to explore your immigration options!
