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Why Skilled Trades Workers Are Well-Positioned to Settle in Canada Despite Recent Immigration Cuts

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > Why Skilled Trades Workers Are Well-Positioned to Settle in Canada Despite Recent Immigration Cuts

Canada continues to be a land of opportunity for foreign skilled workers, especially in the trades and construction sectors, despite recent changes to immigration policies. In 2025, the federal government introduced cuts to both temporary and permanent residence programs, creating uncertainty for many potential applicants. However, ongoing infrastructure investments promised in the 2025 federal budget, including roads, pipelines, ports, and residential housing, signal a growing demand for skilled tradespeople. This creates unique opportunities for foreign nationals to secure employment and, ultimately, Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.

Opportunities for Skilled Trades Workers in Canada

The shortage of skilled tradespeople in Canada, coupled with a declining population, has intensified the need for workers in construction, renovation, and infrastructure projects. Foreign trades workers are now particularly well-positioned to enter the Canadian labour market through two main pathways: work permits and PR programs.

Work Permits: Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Foreign nationals can gain legal work authorization through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). To qualify, applicants must:

  • Have a job offer from an employer with a positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

  • Be qualified for the position and meet general admissibility requirements, including no criminal record or public safety concerns.

Employers can obtain an LMIA if the position is either in a region with less than 6% unemployment or offers wages at least 20% above the regional median. This pathway allows trades workers to enter Canada and build valuable Canadian work experience, often a stepping stone toward PR.

Permanent Residency: Express Entry and Trade Occupation Draws

Foreign nationals may also secure PR through Express Entry, particularly if they meet the requirements for one of the eligible trades occupations. Some of the key trades under the Trade Occupations Category-Based Draw include:

  • Bricklayers (NOC 72320)

  • Carpenters (NOC 72310)

  • Electricians (NOC 72200)

  • Plumbers (NOC 72300)

  • Welders (NOC 72106)

  • And several other technical and construction-related trades

Applicants may qualify under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), depending on their experience, qualifications, and language proficiency. For trade category draws, at least six months of full-time work in an eligible occupation within the past three years is required. Adequate settlement funds may also be necessary for applicants outside Canada.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many provinces have introduced PNP streams to meet local labour market demands for trades workers. Examples include:

  • Alberta’s Express Entry Stream, prioritizing construction occupations

  • Nova Scotia’s Critical Construction Worker Pilot, and upcoming Express of Interest system focusing on trades and construction

These programs offer skilled tradespeople a faster and more direct route to PR, especially if they have a valid job offer or provincial ties.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but ICC Immigration is committed to helping foreign nationals explore the best pathways to long-term success. Our experienced team assesses your situation and guides you toward the most suitable PR programs, helping you avoid uncertainties and risky approaches such as asylum claims.

Our services include:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: Smooth processing through Express Entry, PNPs, and other pathways.

  • Work Permits and Study Permits: Temporary options to establish your career or education, eventually leading to PR.

  • Family Sponsorships: Reunite with family members in Canada while securing your PR status.

  • Expert Legal Advice: Navigate Canada’s complex immigration policies with professional guidance to maximize your chances of success.

By choosing a structured immigration pathway with ICC Immigration, you gain stability, security, and a clear path to PR. Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your journey, we are here to provide the guidance and support needed to make your immigration process smooth and confident.

Why Skilled Trades Workers Remain in Demand

Even with temporary restrictions and cuts, Canada’s ongoing infrastructure expansion and housing development programs ensure a continued need for skilled tradespeople. By combining temporary work permits with PR pathways, foreign nationals can build Canadian work experience, integrate into the labour market, and secure their future in Canada.

For foreign trades workers, now is the ideal time to take advantage of Canada’s labour market opportunities, gain meaningful employment, and secure permanent residency.