Caregiver Programs:

Welcoming Caregivers to Canada

Canada has a long-standing tradition of welcoming caregivers, recognizing their invaluable contribution to our economy and society. As part of our commitment to modernizing immigration policies, Canada has established streamlined pathways for caregivers seeking permanent residence, including two innovative pilot programs: the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot.

Eligibility Criteria

Both pilot programs require caregivers to meet the following criteria:

• At least 12 months of full-time qualifying work experience within the 36 months prior to application.
• Language proficiency at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 5.
• Completion of a one-year post-secondary educational credential, either Canadian or equivalent foreign education (ECA required for foreign credentials).
• Successful completion of an admissibility check (health, criminality, security).

Qualifying Work Experience

Caregivers must demonstrate relevant experience under National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes 4411 (Home Child Care Providers) or 4412 (Home Support Workers). The work experience does not need to be consecutive but must total 12 months of full-time work, defined as at least 30 hours per week.

Language and Education Requirements

Applicants must achieve a CLB of 5 in all language skills and possess the necessary educational qualifications.

Work Permit Options for Caregivers

• Caregivers applying under these pilot programs may also be eligible for work permits:
• Open Work Permits are available based on the applicant’s work experience category.
• Category A applies to those with 0-23 months of eligible work experience, requiring an occupation-restricted open work permit.
• Category B applies to those who have completed 12 months of eligible work experience, allowing them to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Stream

Families in need can hire foreign caregivers to provide essential support for children, seniors, or individuals with medical needs. Caregivers must work full-time and reside in the household where care is provided. A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required to confirm that no Canadians are available for the position.

Conditions for Work Permits

Caregivers must be residing in Canada to process work permits for provinces outside Quebec. For Quebec, both in-province and overseas applications may be processed, provided eligibility criteria are met.