The Caregiver Program in Canada allows foreign caregivers to work and eventually apply for permanent residency (PR). There are two main pathways for caregivers to obtain PR:
- Home Child Care Provider Pilot
- Home Support Worker Pilot
Both pilots provide caregivers with a direct pathway to PR after gaining Canadian work experience.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for PR through the Caregiver Program, you must:
- Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer
- Meet the minimum language requirement (CLB 5 in English or French)
- Have at least one year of post-secondary education
- Possess relevant caregiving experience
- Pass a medical exam and security checks
If you already have at least 24 months of eligible work experience in Canada, you can apply for PR immediately.
Step-by-Step Process to Get PR Through the Caregiver Program
Step 1: Find a Job Offer in Canada
Caregivers must secure a valid, full-time job offer from a Canadian employer outside of Quebec. The employer does not need an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
You can search for caregiver jobs through Job Bank Canada (https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/), private caregiver job listings, and recruitment agencies.
Step 2: Apply for a Work Permit
Once you have a job offer, apply for a caregiver-specific work permit. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive a work permit valid for up to 3 years.
Step 3: Work in Canada as a Caregiver
You need to complete 24 months (2 years) of full-time caregiving experience in Canada.
Eligible caregiving roles include:
- Home Child Care Provider (caring for children under 18 in a private home)
- Home Support Worker (assisting seniors or people with disabilities in a private home)
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residency (PR)
Once you complete 24 months of work experience, you can apply for PR under the Caregiver Program.
Required documents for PR application:
- Proof of work experience (pay stubs, employer reference letters, work permit)
- Language test results (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French)
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Medical exam and police clearance
Processing times for PR applications under the Caregiver Program typically range from 6 to 12 months.
Alternative Pathways to PR for Caregivers
If you have caregiving experience but don’t qualify under the pilot programs, you may apply for PR through Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class or Federal Skilled Worker Program).