Why Trades Workers Are Still in Demand Despite 2025 Immigration Cuts

Despite recent immigration cuts and policy tightening in 2025, foreign skilled trades workers remain well positioned to settle in Canada due to persistent labour shortages, major infrastructure investments, and continued demand in construction and skilled trades occupations.

While Canada has reduced intake levels across some temporary and permanent immigration programs, the country’s economic reality continues to rely heavily on trades professionals to support housing, infrastructure, and industrial growth.

1) Canada’s Ongoing Demand for Skilled Trades Workers

Canada is facing a significant shortage of skilled trades workers, driven by three key factors:

• Project Expansion: Large-scale infrastructure and housing projects are expanding nationwide.
• Retirement Wave: A growing portion of the domestic trades workforce is reaching retirement age.
• Skills Gap: Fewer young Canadians are entering trades professions to replace retirees.

As outlined in the 2025 federal budget, Canada is investing billions of dollars into:

• Housing construction
• Transportation infrastructure
• Energy and utility projects
• Industrial and commercial development

These projects require a steady supply of electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, and heavy equipment operators—roles that cannot be easily automated or outsourced.

2) Why Immigration Cuts Haven’t Affected Trades

In 2025, Canada reduced intake targets for certain immigration streams, including parts of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). However, these reductions have not eliminated demand for skilled trades workers.

In fact:

• Fewer low-skill temporary workers have increased the relative demand for experienced trades professionals.
• Employers are prioritizing candidates with hands-on skills and certifications.
• Provinces continue to aggressively seek trades workers to meet regional labour needs.

3) Top 3 Entry Pathways for Trades Workers

1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Many trades workers enter Canada initially through the TFWP. This requires a valid job offer and a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Trades occupations frequently qualify for LMIA approval due to proven labour shortages.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Several provinces operate PNP streams specifically targeting trades workers (e.g., Alberta, Ontario, BC). PNP nominations provide 600 additional CRS points in Express Entry, significantly boosting the chance of permanent residence approval.

3. Express Entry – Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

This program is designed specifically for skilled trades professionals. To qualify, candidates need:

• Relevant work experience in eligible trades.
• Language proficiency.
• A valid job offer or provincial certification.

4) How Canadian Experience Strengthens PR Prospects

Foreign trades workers who gain Canadian work experience benefit significantly when transitioning to permanent residence:

• CRS Boost: Canadian experience improves CRS scores in Express Entry (CEC class).
• Employer Support: Employers are more likely to support PR applications for proven workers.
• Provincial Favor: PNP streams often favor candidates already working locally.

Even short-term Canadian experience can substantially improve long-term immigration outcomes.

5) Why Trades Workers Remain a Priority

Trades occupations are considered essential to Canada’s economic stability. Because sectors like construction, energy, and utilities are central to Canada’s growth strategy, immigration policies continue to support skilled trades recruitment, even during periods of overall immigration reduction.

6) Conclusion: Long-Term Outlook

Although Canada has reduced immigration intake levels in 2025, foreign skilled trades workers continue to have strong settlement prospects. Thanks to persistent labour shortages and ongoing infrastructure investment, skilled trades professionals remain among the most resilient and in-demand immigrant groups.

With the right strategy—starting with temporary work and transitioning through PNP or Express Entry—many trades workers can still successfully build long-term futures in Canada.

📞 Are You a Skilled Trades Worker? Contact i2Canada.

Find out which pathway (TFWP, PNP, or Express Entry) is best for your skills. Our experts are here to help:

For specialized Canadian immigration services, contact i2Canada. We have a registered office in Toronto and operate under the management of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC):

To book a consultation, click the links below to message on WhatsApp or call us.