The Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot are two caregiver programs in Canada that are set to commence accepting new applications from January 1, 2024, starting at 9 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
These are five-year pilot initiatives, allowing eligible caregivers and their families to immigrate to Canada with the prospect of obtaining permanent citizenship.
Canada Caregiver Pilot Program 2024 Overview
The application process is divided into two main categories: direct entry into permanent residence and Gaining Experience. Application fees start at $CAN 1,085.
For those with 12 months of relevant work experience, the Direct to Permanent Residence category under the Home Support Worker Pilot or the Home Child Care Provider Pilot is available for application by you and your family members.
Alternatively, the Gaining Experience category is open for those with less than 12 months of work experience or no prior full-time caregiver experience in Canada. Eligibility for the Direct to Permanence category is granted to those who have accumulated a total of 12 months or more of full-time caregiver work in Canada within the last 36 months.
In a significant change, Canada has reduced the mandatory 12-month work experience requirement for domestic caregivers applying for permanent residence (PR). Formerly set at 24 months, caregivers now only need 12 months of experience to qualify. Evidence of sufficient experience must be provided to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), especially for those who have previously applied under the "Gaining experience" category.
How to Apply for Canada Caregiver Pilot Program 2024
To apply for permanent residency under Canadian caregiver programs, follow these steps:
- Determine eligibility requirements.
- Take a language test and submit proof of language skills in English or French.
- Get your education assessed.
- Submit your permanent residence application.
- After application submission, complete Biometrics for the IRCC to make a decision on your permanent residence status.
As of 2023, the Online Cap for the Home Child Care Provider Pilot has been reached, while the Alternate format remains open. The Home Support Worker Pilot program is currently accepting applications.
Both the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot will resume accepting new applications from January 1, 2024.