Canada has announced two new caregiver pilot programs to launch on March 31, 2025, replacing the current Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot, which expired on June 17, 2024. These new programs aim to make it easier for caregivers to immigrate to Canada and support Canadian families.
Key Features of the New Programs
The updated caregiver programs include several improvements:
- Upon arrival, caregivers will gain permanent resident status, removing the requirement for specific Canadian work experience.
- They will be allowed to work for organizations providing temporary or part-time care to individuals recovering from illness or injury or those needing semi-independent care.
- Language proficiency requirements have been lowered to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4, compared to the previous CLB 5.
- Applicants only need a Canadian high school diploma equivalent, replacing the previous requirement of one year of post-secondary education.
While further details about work experience requirements are still pending, IRCC has promised to release more information as the launch date approaches.
The Importance of Caregivers in Canada
Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting families, especially as Canada faces a growing demand for home care. Over the next six years, more than nine million Canadians are expected to retire, increasing the need for caregivers to assist seniors at home or in care facilities.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated, “Caregivers play a critical role in supporting Canadian families, and our programs need to reflect their invaluable contributions. These two new pilots will improve support for caregivers and provide families with the quality care they deserve.”
Meeting Rising Childcare Needs
With more women joining the workforce, the demand for childcare providers is growing. Statistics Canada reports that women’s labor force participation increased from 58.5% in 1990 to 61.5% in 2022, highlighting the need for more accessible caregiving services.
Caregiver Immigration Goals
Under Canada’s 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan, the country aims to welcome over 15,000 new permanent residents through caregiver programs. Since 2019, approximately 5,700 caregivers and their families have already gained permanent residency.
The new caregiver pilot programs, launching March 31, 2025, reflect Canada’s efforts to address the needs of caregivers and families alike, while making the immigration process more straightforward and inclusive.
