In a significant move to address the labour shortages in Canada’s construction sector, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new policy that allows certain temporary foreign workers to enrol in apprenticeship programs without requiring a study permit. This exemption is expected to streamline the process for skilled foreign workers in the construction industry, helping them gain the necessary qualifications while contributing to Canada’s growing housing and infrastructure needs.
Eligibility Criteria for Study Permit Exemption
To qualify for this exemption, a foreign national must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a valid work permit.
- Have a job offer in an eligible construction-related occupation.
- Possess a registered apprenticeship agreement with an employer for the specified job.
The apprenticeship agreement must be officially registered with the relevant provincial or territorial authority. Additionally, the worker must meet all eligibility requirements both at the time of submitting their request and at the time of receiving a decision on their application.
This temporary public policy took effect on February 26, 2025, and will remain in place until February 26, 2027. The announcement was made by Immigration Minister Marc Miller in Woodbridge, Ontario, on March 7, 2025.
Eligible Construction Occupations
The occupations eligible for this exemption are those that have been identified as being in high demand within Canada’s construction industry. The list includes:
| Occupation | NOC Code |
| Bricklayers | 72320 |
| Cabinetmakers | 72311 |
| Carpenters | 72310 |
| Civil engineering technologists & technicians | 22300 |
| Civil engineers | 21300 |
| Concrete finishers | 73100 |
| Construction estimators | 22303 |
| Construction managers | 70010 |
| Construction millwrights & industrial mechanics | 72400 |
| Electrical Mechanics | 72422 |
| Electricians (except industrial & power systems) | 72200 |
| Floor covering installers | 73113 |
| HVAC mechanics | 72402 |
| Heavy-duty equipment mechanics | 72401 |
| Home building & renovation managers | 70011 |
| Industrial electricians | 72201 |
| Painters & decorators (except interior decorators) | 73112 |
| Plumbers | 72300 |
| Roofers & shingles | 73110 |
| Sheet metal workers | 72102 |
| Water well drillers | 72501 |
| Welders & related machine operators | 72106 |
It is important to note that eligibility is determined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code rather than the job title. Workers must ensure that their job responsibilities align with at least 51% of the duties listed in the NOC description for their role.
Application Process for Study Permit Exemption
Foreign workers who wish to apply under this exemption must specifically request consideration under this public policy. When submitting their online application, they must include “Apprenticeship 25-27” in the explanation box within the “Tell us about your request” section.
If the application is successful, the applicant will receive a letter of authorization confirming their right to study without a permit. This authorization remains valid until the earliest of the following:
- The expiration of the applicant’s work permit.
- The expiration of the temporary public policy (February 26, 2027).
- The revocation of the temporary public policy.
Why This Policy Matters
The Canadian government has implemented this measure as part of a broader effort to increase the supply of skilled construction workers and address Canada’s housing crisis. Traditionally, apprenticeship programs require both a work permit and a study permit, making it more complex for foreign workers to gain the necessary skills and certifications. This exemption simplifies the process by allowing temporary foreign workers to complete their apprenticeships under the terms of their work permits, ensuring a smoother transition between work and study periods.
New Pathway to Permanent Residence for Construction Workers
Alongside the study permit exemption, Immigration Minister Marc Miller also announced a new permanent residence (PR) pathway specifically designed for construction workers. Under this initiative:
- Up to 6,000 PR spots will be allocated to undocumented construction workers currently residing in Canada.
- A total of 14,000 new permanent residents could be admitted through this program.
While further details on the eligibility criteria for this PR pathway are yet to be disclosed, this initiative highlights Canada’s commitment to retaining skilled foreign workers and strengthening its workforce in critical industries.
How SWEC Can Help You
Navigating Canada’s evolving immigration policies can be complex, but SWEC Visa is here to simplify the process for you. Whether you are a skilled worker seeking to take advantage of the study permit exemption or exploring permanent residency options, our expert team can guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria.
With our deep expertise in Canadian immigration policies, SWEC Visa has helped countless professionals secure work permits, study permits, and permanent residence in Canada. Contact SWEC Visa today to get personalized guidance and take the next step toward a rewarding career in Canada’s booming construction industry.
This policy presents a game-changing opportunity for foreign workers in construction, enabling them to advance their careers while addressing Canada’s labour shortages. By reducing barriers to entry and creating new pathways to permanent residency, Canada continues to strengthen its commitment to attracting and retaining skilled talent in key industries.
Stay informed with SWEC Visa to get the latest updates on Canadian immigration policies and take advantage of these exciting opportunities!
