Canada is opening new permanent residency (PR) pathways for construction workers, a move aimed at tackling labor shortages and supporting the country’s growing housing needs. The initiative, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), includes a significant provision: out-of-status construction workers may also be eligible to apply.
Many out-of-status construction workers have been living and working in Canada for years, helping to build much-needed housing. Under this new pathway, they will now have the opportunity to regularize their status and stay in the country legally. According to the statement released by the IRCC, “These undocumented migrants are already living and working in Canada, and are contributing to the sector, and this pathway will keep them here legally so that they can continue to build the homes our economy and communities need with the proper protections.”
In addition to supporting out-of-status workers, the government is also making it easier for foreign apprentices to complete their training in Canada. In the same news release, the IRCC stated, “to support foreign apprentices in construction programs and to address the current labour market needs in the construction sector, we are also introducing a temporary measure to allow foreign apprentices to complete their studies without a study permit, effective today. By removing this administrative barrier, apprentices will be able to gain the valuable skills they need to contribute to infrastructure projects more quickly.”
The new immigration measures reflect Canada’s urgent need for skilled labor to meet the country’s growing housing demands. In addition to these new pathways, the government will form an advisory council with officials, industry employers, and union representatives to ensure fair wages and better protections for workers in the construction sector.
How to Apply?
More details on eligibility and the application process will be released soon. Construction workers and apprentices seeking legal guidance are encouraged to seek professional assistance.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced significant updates to the Express Entry category-based selection, a move that will impact thousands of skilled workers, including Filipinos in Canada. These changes aim to align Canada’s immigration system with current labor market demands. The most significant updates include:
Education professionals are now prioritized – More teaching and support roles added.
Healthcare occupations expanded – Additional medical and social service jobs included.
Trades category grows – More construction, skilled trades, and food service jobs now eligible.
Transport category removed – No more priority for truck drivers and related jobs.
STEM occupations cut back – Nineteen occupations removed, leaving a smaller list.
For Filipinos in Canada, these updates present new opportunities and challenges. To qualify for an Express Entry category-based draw, candidates must meet the following requirements:
You must have at least 6 months of full-time, continuous work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work) within the last 3 years.
Your work experience must be in one occupation from the list of eligible NOC codes below.
Your experience can be gained in Canada or abroad.
If you meet these requirements, and your job falls under one of the priority categories, you may have a higher chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency under the category-based Express Entry draws.
Education Category Added – More Opportunities for Filipino Teachers and Assistants
For the first time, education professionals have been added to Express Entry’s category-based draws. This means teachers, assistants, and special education instructors now have a higher chance of being invited for permanent residency.
Who Qualifies?
The following National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes are now eligible:
Job Title
NOC Code
TEER Level
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants
43100
3
Instructors of persons with disabilities
42203
2
Early childhood educators and assistants
42202
2
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
41221
1
Secondary school teachers
41220
1
Many Filipinos work as early childhood educators and teacher assistants across Canada. If you are already in this field or planning to apply, now is a great time to update your Express Entry profile and ensure you meet the requirements.
Healthcare Category Expanded – More Jobs for Medical and Social Services Workers
Canada continues to prioritize healthcare occupations, adding more roles to Express Entry. Below is the full list of eligible healthcare jobs under the category-based draws for 2025.
Full List of Healthcare Jobs Eligible for Express Entry (2025):
Job Title
NOC Code
TEER Level
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians
32104
2
Audiologists and speech language pathologists
31112
1
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological techs
32123
2
Chiropractors
31201
1
Dental hygienists and dental therapists
32111
2
Dentists
31110
1
Dieticians and nutritionists
31121
1
General practitioners and family physicians
31102
1
Licensed practical nurses
32101
2
Massage therapists
32201
2
Medical laboratory assistants and related techs
33101
3
Medical laboratory technologists
32120
2
Medical radiation technologists
32121
2
Medical sonographers
32122
2
Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
33102
3
Nurse practitioners
31302
1
Nursing coordinators and supervisors
31300
1
Occupational therapists
31203
1
Optometrists
31111
1
Other medical technologists and technicians
32129
2
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing & treating
31209
1
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
32109
2
Paramedical occupations
32102
2
Pharmacists
31120
1
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
33103
3
Pharmacy technicians
32124
2
Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health pros
31303
1
Physiotherapists
31202
1
Psychologists
31200
1
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
Trades Category Expanded – Cooks and More Jobs Added
Canada has expanded its trades category, adding cooks and other skilled workers to support infrastructure and food service demands.
Full List of Eligible Trades in Express Entry (2025):
Here is the table for the eligible occupations with their 2021 NOC codes and TEER categories:
Occupation
2021 NOC Code
2021 TEER Category
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services
82021
2
Floor covering installers
73113
3
Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
73112
3
Roofers and shinglers
73110
3
Concrete finishers
73100
3
Other technical trades and related occupations
72999
2
Water well drillers
72501
2
Electrical mechanics
72422
2
Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics
72402
2
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
72401
2
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
72400
2
Bricklayers
72320
2
Cabinetmakers
72311
2
Carpenters
72310
2
Gas fitters
72302
2
Plumbers
72300
2
Industrial electricians
72201
2
Electricians (except industrial and power system)
72200
2
Welders and related machine operators
72106
2
Sheet metal workers
72102
2
Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
72100
2
Home building and renovation managers
70011
0
Construction managers
70010
0
Cooks
63200
3
Construction estimators
22303
2
Transport Category Removed – What This Means for Workers
The transport category has been completely removed from Express Entry. Truck drivers and other transport workers will no longer receive priority.
Alternative Pathways:
Check Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) (e.g., Manitoba and Saskatchewan still prioritize transport workers).
Look for employer-sponsored PR options.
Increase CRS score to compete in the general Express Entry pool.
STEM Category Reduced – Fewer Opportunities for Tech and Engineering Jobs
Canada has removed 19 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) occupations from Express Entry. Below is the remaining list of STEM jobs still eligible.
Remaining STEM Occupations in Express Entry (2025):
Job Title
NOC Code
TEER Level
Architecture and science managers
20011
0
Civil engineering technologists and technicians
22300
2
Civil Engineers
21300
1
Cybersecurity specialists
21220
1
Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians
22310
2
Electrical and electronics engineers
21310
1
Geological Engineers
21331
1
Industrial and manufacturing engineers
21321
1
Insurance agents and brokers
63100
3
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
22301
2
Mechanical Engineers
21301
1
What to Prepare If You Are in a Newly Added NOC Code
Update your Express Entry profile with your correct NOC code.
Prepare work experience letters, education credentials, and language test results. .
Need Help? JCA LAW Can Assist You!
Book a consultation with JCA LAW today! Canada’s immigration system is changing fast—don’t miss your opportunity for PR.
Canada continues to recognize the important role that home care workers or caregivers play in supporting families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. In line with this, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced two new Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots, which will officially open on March 31, 2025. These pilot programs are set to replace the previous programs for caregivers which already closed.
📘 Complete Immigration Guide: The caregiver pathway is one of several routes to Canadian PR. For a complete overview of all immigration options for Filipinos, including Express Entry, PNP, and Family Sponsorship, read our Filipino Immigrant Guide to Canada – From Visa to PR (2026).
This new initiative aims to make it easier for home care workers to obtain permanent residence (PR) while addressing Canada’s growing demand for in-home caregiving services. Here’s what we know so far about the program and how it may benefit Filipino caregivers and their families in Canada.
What Are the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots?
The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots are designed to streamline the PR process for foreign caregivers seeking to work and settle in Canada. The new pilots will:
Offer permanent residency (PR) upon arrival to eligible caregivers, eliminating the need for them to first work under temporary status before applying for PR.
Provide a clearer and faster pathway for home care workers to immigrate.
Help address labor shortages in Canada’s home care sector, particularly for seniors and people with disabilities.
Who Can Apply?
While full details are expected closer to the launch date, eligible applicants will likely need to meet the following:
Work Experience: Relevant experience in caregiving, such as caring for children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.
Job Offer: A valid job offer from an eligible Canadian home care organization.
Language Requirement: Meet the minimum language proficiency in English or French.
Education: Completion of at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Admissibility: Must pass standard medical, security, and background checks for Canadian immigration.
These requirements are expected to be more flexible compared to previous programs, ensuring more caregivers can qualify.
Next Steps
Many Filipino caregivers are already working in Canada under temporary work permits, often facing uncertainty in securing PR due to employer dependency and changing immigration policies. With the March 31, 2025 launch approaching, here’s what caregivers and aspiring applicants should do:
Stay Updated – Follow IRCC announcements and consult licensed immigration professionals to ensure compliance with program requirements.
Prepare Documents Early – Those interested should start gathering required documents, including proof of work experience, education credentials, and language test results (IELTS/CELPIP).
Explore Job Opportunities – Look for job offers from authorized home care agencies in Canada.
For more information on Canadian immigration programs or to book a consultation, reach out to JCA LAW—your trusted Filipino legal experts in Canada!
Meet Marc Miller: Canada’s New Immigration Minister
A fresh face in Canada’s immigration landscape, with a background rooted in advocacy and a vision for a more inclusive and diverse nation.
Marc Miller’s appointment as the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship on July 26, 2023 brought about by the reshuffling of cabinet roles suggests that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has confidence in Miller’s ability to handle these important responsibilities, particularly at a time when immigration and refugee matters are central to discussions about Canada’s economy, demographics, and international relations.
Background and Career
Miller, who is a Quebec Liberal MP, has previously served as the Minister of Crown Indigenous Relations, a role that likely allowed him to gain crucial experience in dealing with sensitive matters of policy, human rights, and negotiations. Prior to becoming an MP, he was a lawyer with specialization in commercial and international law working in Montreal, Stockholm and New York. He’s an alumnae of both the University of Montreal and McGill, where he earned his law degree, and attended the private secondary school College Jean-de-Brebeuf in Montreal at the same time as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which explains his close ties with the PM. His friendship with Prime Minister Trudeau may also allow for enhanced cooperation and communication between their respective offices, which could prove beneficial in terms of policy formulation and implementation.
Marc Miller sworn in as the new Immigration Minister during a ceremony at Rideau Hall. July 26, 2023. Photo taken from Marc Miller’s official FB Page.
The New Minister’s Immigration Vision
As Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller undertakes a crucial responsibility of shaping the nation’s immigration policies and programs. This role plays a pivotal part in determining Canada’s approach to welcoming newcomers, addressing humanitarian concerns, and contributing to economic growth. Recognizing the challenges faced by the immigration system, Minister Miller is dedicated to reforming it for the better. This involves addressing backlogs and processing times to ensure a smoother and more efficient immigration process. Moreover, he places emphasis on strengthening family reunification programs, recognizing their importance in maintaining strong social ties within communities.
Key policy areas under Minister Miller’s leadership:
Immigration Reform: Addressing backlogs and processing times for smoother processes
Family Reunification: Strengthening programs to maintain strong social ties
Skilled Immigration: Attracting and retaining global talent for economic growth
International Students: Supporting students throughout their educational journey with pathways to permanent settlement
National Security: Balancing security measures with Canada’s reputation as an open and welcoming nation
Understanding the significant contributions of skilled immigrants and foreign workers to Canada’s economy, Minister Miller advocates for policies that attract and retain talent from around the world. By fostering an environment that supports temporary foreign worker programs, he aims to strike a balance between addressing labor market needs and providing opportunities to those seeking employment in the country.
Marc Miller’s vision extends to harnessing immigration as a tool for economic growth. By attracting global talent and encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, he seeks to create a vibrant and competitive economy that thrives on diversity.
Have questions about Canada’s immigration policies? JCA Law Office can help you understand your options.
A Guide for Filipinos Who Want to Work or Live in Canada
Everything you need to know about immigrating to Canada — from eligibility and documents to finding a job and embracing a new culture.
Canada is known for its quality of life, excellent healthcare, and welcoming society. If you’re a Filipino who wants to work or live in Canada, there are several things you need to know before you make the move. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Check Your Eligibility for Immigration to Canada
The first step in moving to Canada is to determine your eligibility for immigration. There are several immigration programs you can apply for, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Provincial Nominee Program. Each program has its own set of requirements, so make sure you do your research and find the one that best fits your qualifications.
2. Gather All the Necessary Documents
Once you’ve determined your eligibility for immigration, the next step is to gather all the necessary documents. These include your passport, birth certificate, educational credentials, work experience, language test results, and police clearance certificates. Make sure all your documents are up-to-date and translated into English or French if necessary.
3. Learn English or French
English and French are the two official languages in Canada, and being proficient in either one of them can increase your chances of finding work and settling into Canadian society. You’ll also need to take a language test to prove your proficiency in English or French when you apply for immigration. There are many language schools and courses you can take to improve your language skills.
4. Find a Job in Canada
If you’re planning to work in Canada, it’s a good idea to start looking for a job before you move. You can use job search websites like Job Bank or Indeed to find job openings in your field. You can also network with people in your industry or attend job fairs and recruitment events. Make sure your resume is updated and tailored to Canadian standards.
5. Prepare for the Cost of Living
Canada is a relatively expensive country to live in, especially in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Make sure you have enough savings to cover your living expenses for the first few months while you look for a job. You should also research the cost of housing, food, transportation, and healthcare in the city or province you plan to live in.
6. Embrace Canadian Culture
Canada is a multicultural country, and Filipinos are one of the largest visible minority groups in the country. However, Canadian culture is different from Filipino culture, and it’s important to be open-minded and respectful of Canadian customs and traditions. Embrace the differences and learn from them. Joining Filipino community organizations can also help you stay connected with your culture and make new friends.
Conclusion
Moving to Canada as a Filipino can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By checking your eligibility for immigration, gathering all the necessary documents, learning English or French, finding a job in Canada, preparing for the cost of living, and embracing Canadian culture, you can successfully work and live in Canada. Good luck!
Need Help With Your Immigration to Canada?
Our immigration lawyers can guide you through the process. Contact us today for a consultation.
Tips for Applying to Scholarships as an International Student in Canada
A guide to government, non-government, and university scholarships available to international students studying in Canada.
Introduction
With Covid-19 restrictions easing up in Canada and the borders opening up to the world, more and more international students are getting encouraged to study abroad. However, the cost of attending a post-secondary education is no doubt expensive and this factor alone could be the reason why students will not pursue their studies abroad. If money is a huge obstacle in stopping you from getting an education outside of your home country, this article will guide and provide useful tips on getting a scholarship here in Canada as an International student.
For those who need an explanation of what a scholarship is: it is financial aid for students who were awarded for their academic standings and met any other criteria that was necessary. The awarded money is then used to pay for your education.
There are multiple ways to save and finance your money towards an education here in Canada, but it is more common for all students to apply for a scholarship. In Canada, there are three types of scholarships:
Three Types of Canadian Scholarships
Government Scholarships
Non-Government Scholarships
Canadian University/College Scholarships
Government Scholarships
International students who apply for this type of scholarship will be able to study in Canada at a reasonable price, while managing a good budget and healthy lifestyle. Global Affairs Canada is responsible for all major international scholarships and programs. You can check out their website to find various scholarship applications. You will also be able to plan your education and know the expenses of your program(s). Most of these types of scholarships offer assistance during your stay in Canada.
Non-Government Scholarships
These scholarships are not funded by the government and are owned by non-profit organizations or big corporations. They attract many international students because they could offer a lot of financial assistance depending on the type of career you want to pursue. You just need to invest a lot of time in researching and finding the legit organizations.
University/College Scholarships
Scholarships under this category are mostly merit-based, meaning a student is likely getting financial aid if they have an excellent academic, athletic, or artistic standings. If you have a high GPA and have a general idea of the career you want to pursue, it is recommended that you start researching for universities/colleges that have the programs you are interested in.
Tips for Applying Towards a Scholarship
To apply for scholarships in Canada, most organizations/schools will require an essay reflecting about your interest, work experiences and background, and of course getting impressive grades from your previous school. Depending on the scholarships, some will require additional responsibilities or duties to be eligible. All international students should utilize scholarship opportunities because managing school and a part-time job can really be stressful.
Tip 1: Apply for Scholarships That You Are Eligible For
There is no point in trying to apply for a scholarship that does not meet your or the scholarship’s requirements. Not only time and effort will be wasted in trying to apply, but you will also feel discouraged. It will take time looking for the right scholarship to apply for, so it is best to keep trying and be patient.
Tip 2: Get Letters of Recommendations
If possible, have teachers or professionals who share a strong relationship with you to write a letter of recommendation for your application. These people can vouch for you, your work/study ethics and explain your strengths and your ability to overcome your weaknesses. Ensure to provide additional information about yourself and the scholarship you are applying for to the recommender, so they can mention it in their letter. Give them at least two-weeks notice about the letter so they have time to write and figure out the right information they can provide in order to help you get that scholarship you are aiming for.
Need Immigration Services?
If you are an international student needing legal and immigration services, the Legal and Immigration Team of JCA LAW is ready to help you. Give us a call at 1-855-522-5290 during office hours, or send us a direct message on our Facebook or Instagram Page. You may also send your inquiries via our web form.
Have questions about studying in Canada? Our immigration team can help.
If you are confused about whether to hire a lawyer, this post is for you.
“If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.” – Red Adair
3 REASONS WHY YOU NEED TO HIRE A LAWYER
Reason No. 1: You do not know what to do with your legal matter
Legal matters can have long, unexpected, and unwanted consequences.
Get the information you need from a trusted and reliable source. Lawyers are expected to maintain professional standards involving competence and ethics. In Ontario, practicing lawyers are covered by professional liability insurance up to $1,000,000 or more.
Unless you know what you are doing or the matter is inconsequential, seeking legal advice from a professional will probably create the best value for your time and money. Avoid getting “free” legal advice from family or friends especially for matters that you deem important. First, they may cause more harm than good if they are not competent to provide such advice. Second, they may be biased or have a self-interest in the matter. Ironically, what many consider “free” are usually the ones that cost the most.
Some lawyers are better suited for your needs in terms of expertise, schedule, communication, and fees. Finding the right lawyer can be challenging, but whether you need one is probably the first decision you must make. Even if you do not get the solution to your legal matter right away, you are on the right track. A good lawyer should guide you with the process, lay out your options, and recommend your next steps. Moreover, such a lawyer is well connected and may refer you to another professional who is better able to meet your needs.
Reason No. 2: You do not have the time
Time is money or time is gold, so they say. Do you believe this? Of course!
Yes, you can spend your own time and do it yourself. There is no harm in trying if you know what you are doing (see Reason No. 1 above). However, specialists like lawyers are expected to do their job much better and a lot faster. Consider how that will translate to cost savings for you. They say practice makes perfect and anyone doing something repeatedly will naturally become proficient at it. Lawyers become experts in legal matters through years of education, training, and experience.
If you would rather spend your time doing something else, then hiring a professional is the right choice. Spend your time doing what you do best and let lawyers do what they do best. Does this make sense? We think it does! While lawyers charge at an hourly rate much higher than the minimum wage, the value of their service is usually more than its cost. In fact, some highly rated lawyers deliver value many times over what they charge. What this mean is that in some cases, the lawyers that cost more are the ones who can deliver more value. Consider what you will gain compared to what it will cost.
As with making any decision, be adequately informed before making one. As mentioned above, there are lawyers better suited to your needs than others. Find the right one for you to get the most out of your time and money. Do not get intimidated by the initial cost. Instead, try to understand you will get out of it. Do your searches and ask the right questions.
More experienced lawyers are expected to charge higher hourly rates for good reasons. Such lawyers are relatively in high-demand which allows them to increase their rates. As you can imagine, a lawyer’s availability in terms of time is limited. Hence, lawyers whose services are highly sought after will tend to charge higher fees so that their time will be devoted only to serious clients who recognize their value.
Reason No. 3: Your judgement is clouded
There are matters better left to be handled by someone else even if you have the knowledge and the time for them. This applies if you are emotionally attached to the matter at hand because it will affect your judgment. Worse, the matter can lead to anxiety and leave you emotionally drained. Examples are those involving sensitive family law matters, civil litigation and criminal charges.
The best judgments are usually made with reasons and not emotions. This holds true in complex or complicated situations including legal settings. This is where professionals such as lawyers can reach their true potential. They can set aside their personal view and handle the matter objectively to get optimal results.
Believe me when I say that even lawyers sometimes need other lawyers.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Do-it-yourself (DIY) is made available to the masses in this age of information which is a good thing. Social media, crowdsourcing, and highly efficient search engines allow anyone to obtain the right information at the right time at a minimal cost. Nothing can be better than that.
However, there are times when things are better left to the professionals. For some legal matters, the first step is usually to decide whether you need to hire a lawyer. As with almost everything else, there are trade-offs to your decisions and only you can know which is best for you. If any of the 3 reasons apply to you, strongly consider getting help from a lawyer. Depending on a lawyer’s policy, you may or may not be charged for the initial consultation.
Please message us for your comments and suggestions.