Caregiver Program

Information

What is the Caregiver Program?

The Caregiver Program is a Canadian immigration pathway for foreign caregivers who provide care for children, elderly people, or individuals with medical needs. It allows caregivers to work in Canada and eventually apply for permanent residence (PR).

Main Pathways for Caregivers:

  • Home Child Care Provider Pilot

    • For caregivers who take care of children under 18 in a private home.

    • Example jobs: Nanny, babysitter, live-in child caregiver.

  • Home Support Worker Pilot

    • For caregivers who provide personal care, companionship, or assistance to seniors or people with disabilities at home.

    • Example jobs: Personal support worker (PSW), home care aide, live-in caregiver.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for these caregiver pathways, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Work Experience:

    • At least 24 months (2 years) of full-time work experience in the last 5 years in Canada under an eligible NOC code:

      • Home Child Care Provider (NOC 44100)

      • Home Support Worker (NOC 44101)

  • Job Offer in Canada:

    • A valid, full-time job offer from a Canadian employer (the employer must not be in Quebec).

  • Language Proficiency:

    • Minimum CLB 5 in English or French (IELTS: Listening 5.0, Reading 4.0, Writing 5.0, Speaking 5.0).

  • Education:

    • At least high school diploma or equivalent.

    • If the degree was obtained outside Canada, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required.

  • Ability to Work in Canada:

    • Applicants must be eligible for a work permit and must plan to work in caregiving roles in Canada.

  • Intent to Live Outside Quebec:

    • These programs do not apply to Quebec, as it has its own caregiver immigration system.

Advantages of Caregiver Program:

✅ Direct pathway to permanent residence after gaining 2 years of work experience.
✅ Family members can immigrate together, allowing spouses to apply for open work permits and children for study permits.
✅ No LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) required, making it easier for employers to hire caregivers.