Caregiver Pilot Programs
Canada recognizes the critical role that foreign workers play in strengthening its labor market and has implemented a comprehensive range of immigration programs to address current workforce challenges. Among these initiatives, the updated caregiver pilot programs—the Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP) and the Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP)—are specifically designed to mitigate the shortage of caregivers in Canada's home care sector.
Effective from March 31, 2025, these pilot programs offer an expedited pathway to permanent residency for qualified applicants. If you secure a valid job offer in one of the designated caregiver occupations and satisfy all eligibility requirements, you can apply for Canadian permanent residency. Those who qualify will benefit from an LMIA-exempt open work permit specific to their occupation, and eligible family members may also accompany the primary applicant and access opportunities to work or study in Canada.
Legacy Caregiver Programs
Until 2019, in-home and live-in caregiver placements were facilitated under programs such as:
- Caring for Children Program
- Live-in Caregiver Canada Program
- High Medical Needs Program – Caregiver
- Interim Pathway for Caregivers
These legacy programs have since been replaced by the more robust Home Support Worker Pilot and Home Child Care Provider Pilot.
Key Details of the Updated Programs
- Duration: The pilot programs are scheduled to run for five years.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: They provide a direct route to permanent residency for caregivers and their accompanying family members.
- Tailored Eligibility: Application processes vary based on qualifying work experience and other criteria. Applicants should review the latest IRCC guidelines for detailed eligibility requirements.
- Family Inclusion: Immediate family members can accompany the primary applicant, with provisions enabling them to pursue employment or education in Canada.
These enhanced pilot programs underscore Canada’s commitment to addressing critical labor shortages in the home care sector while offering clear and efficient pathways to long-term residency. For the most up-to-date information, prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the latest guidelines and resources provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).