Canada’s immigration policies have undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly concerning the caregiver program. The introduction of the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot has streamlined the process for caregivers seeking permanent residence in Canada.

Key Features of the New Caregiver Programs:

• Permanent Residence from the Start: Applicants now apply directly for permanent residence, eliminating the need for a temporary work permit followed by a separate permanent residence application.
• Family Inclusion: The applicant’s family can be included in the application, allowing them to accompany the caregiver to Canada.
• Employer Flexibility: Caregivers are not restricted to working for a specific employer, reducing the potential for exploitation.
• No LMIA Requirement: Employers are not required to submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application, simplifying the hiring process.
• Open Work Permit: Upon approval, caregivers receive an unrestricted work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in the caregiving field.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for these programs applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Work Experience: At least 12 months of full-time work experience as a caregiver within the 36 months prior to application.
• Education: Completion of a post-secondary program of at least one year. If the credential was obtained outside Canada, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required.
• Language Proficiency: A minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in each skill (writing, reading, listening, and speaking) on an approved language test.
• Job Offer: A genuine, full-time job offer from a Canadian employer outside of Québec.
• Admissibility: The applicant and their family must not be inadmissible to Canada, passing medical and security checks.

Application Process – Let us Help you

1. Job Offer: Secure a full-time job offer from a Canadian employer.
2. Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents, including proof of work experience, education credentials, language test results, and medical and police certificates.
3. Submit Application: Apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
4. Await Decision: IRCC will process the application which will take several months.

Let us help you with your application process. The role of Cristina Zohil-Morton, the Founding Immigration Lawyer at Zohil-Morton Law, specializes in assisting in the immigration process. Her expertise ensures that applications are accurately prepared and submitted, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Next Steps

If you are a caregiver seeking to immigrate to Canada, consider scheduling a consultation with Cristina. She will enhance your prospects of obtaining Canadian permanent residence and contribute to the well-being of families across the country. Please reach out to Cristina at cristina@zomolaw.ca.