On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of Canada’s caregiver immigration programs
- Annual application limits and processing caps
- Eligibility criteria
- Qualifying occupations in child care and home support
- Summary of previous caregiver programs
- A detailed FAQ section
Canada offers two dedicated immigration programs for caregivers, creating structured and accessible pathways to permanent residence for those working in child care and home support.
The two classes are:
- Home Care Worker Immigration (Child Care) Class
- Home Care Worker Immigration (Home Support) Class
These programs are designed to address labour shortages in the caregiving sector while offering stability and long-term opportunities for essential workers.
Both classes were launched with a Stream A, for candidates already in Canada, and a Stream B, for those applying from abroad. However, Stream B has never opened for applications and is currently listed as closed by IRCC.
Program Requirements
Applicants must qualify under Stream A or Stream B, depending on their Canadian work experience.
Common Requirements for Both Streams
- Language: CLB/NCLC 4 or higher in all four skills using an approved test from the past two years
- Education:
- Canadian credential or
- Foreign credential with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) issued within the last five years
- Experience or Training (within the last 3 years):
- At least 6 months of full-time, continuous work in a qualifying occupation, or
- In-person training of at least 6 months leading to a post-secondary credential
- Job Offer: Full-time, non-seasonal employment in an eligible occupation from a qualified employer
- Employer must be outside Quebec
- Wages must meet or exceed the median for the occupation
- Employer must not be a relative of the applicant
- Settlement Funds: Only required under Stream B – applicants must show at least 50% of the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for their family size
Stream A – For Applicants With Canadian Work Experience
Stream A is intended for caregivers already in Canada who are:
- Working full-time in a non-seasonal job
- Living in Canada with valid work authorisation
- Maintaining eligibility through to the approval of their permanent residence
This stream supports workers who have gained relevant experience and are ready to transition to permanent status.
Stream B – For Applicants Without Canadian Work Experience
Stream B provides a pathway for qualified caregivers who are not yet in Canada or do not have Canadian experience.
Applicants must:
- Meet all standard program requirements
- Submit proof of settlement funds
- Maintain eligibility through the entire application process
This stream supports newcomers seeking to immigrate to Canada for caregiving roles with permanent residence built into the pathway.
Eligible Occupations
Child Care Class
- NOC 44100 – Child care providers (excluding foster parents)
- NOC 42202 – Home child care providers (excluding daycare teachers and ECEs)
Home Support Class
- NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
- NOC 44101 – Home support workers
Applicants must perform duties consistent with the National Occupation Classification descriptions for the listed NOC codes.
Summary of Legacy Caregiver Programs
Canada has gradually replaced older caregiver pathways with its current pilot programs.
Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots
- Closed June 17, 2024
- Required two years of work experience before permanent residence
Interim Pathway for Caregivers
- Closed October 8, 2019
- Targeted caregivers already working in Canada
Live-In Caregiver Program (LCP)
- Closed to new applications in 2014
- Provided permanent residence after two years of live-in caregiving
These earlier programs helped shape today’s streamlined caregiver immigration model.
Recognising the Role of Caregivers
Caregivers provide critical support to families, seniors, and individuals with medical needs across Canada. These new programs recognise their contributions by offering them a clear, efficient path to settle and build their futures in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What caregiver immigration programs does Canada offer now?
Canada has two programs – one for child care workers and one for home support workers. Each program offers permanent residence through one of two streams: Stream A (with Canadian work experience) and Stream B (without Canadian experience).
How many applications are accepted each year?
Canada processes up to 2,750 applications per year for each class. For the first year, the intake cap is 2,610 and applies to Stream A only. From the second year onward, Stream B will also be included.
Who qualifies for Stream A versus Stream B?
Stream A is for caregivers already working in Canada. Stream B is for qualified candidates outside Canada or those without Canadian caregiving experience. Both streams have the same education, language, and job offer requirements. However, Stream B is currently listed as closed.
Is a job offer required to apply?
Yes. All applicants must have a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a qualified employer who pays at least the median wage for the occupation in their province. The employer must not be a relative and must be based outside Quebec.
Can caregivers bring their families with them?
Yes. Applicants can include their spouse and dependent children in their application. Spouses can apply for an open work permit and children for study permits to accompany the caregiver to Canada.
