Foreign nationals who aspire to immigrate to Canada as home care workers can now access comprehensive details regarding the new Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots. This initiative presents a unique opportunity for eligible individuals to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) while contributing to essential services in Canadian households.
Understanding the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot (HCWP)
The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot (HCWP) now comprises two distinct programs:
- HCWP: Child Care
- HCWP: Home Support
Each program will feature two streams:
- Workers in Canada Stream
- Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream
The Workers in Canada Stream for both pilots will begin accepting applications from 10 a.m. EDT on March 31, 2025, until March 30, 2026, or until the cap has been filled. Details regarding the Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream will be announced later.
This article provides essential information about the HCWP, including eligibility requirements, selected occupations, education requirements, job offer specifications, and more.
Summary of Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility Requirements Overview
Eligibility Requirement |
HCWP Child Care |
HCWP Home Support |
---|---|---|
Status in Canada |
Must have valid work authorization (exceptions apply) |
Must have valid work authorization (exceptions apply) |
Language Requirements |
CLB 4 |
CLB 4 |
Education |
Secondary school diploma or equivalent |
Secondary school diploma or equivalent |
Work Experience |
Six months as Home Child Care Provider; ECE/Assistant |
Six months as Home Support Worker/Caregiver; Nurse Aid/Orderly |
Professional Training Requirements (if applicable) |
Relevant credential (6 months or longer) |
Relevant credential (6 months or longer) |
Settlement Funds (Applicants Not Working in Canada) |
Funds sufficient for family size |
Funds sufficient for family size |
Occupations Eligible Under the HCWP
HCWP: Child Care
- Home Child Care Providers (NOC 44100)
- Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202) (not including roles like daycare supervisors)
HCWP: Home Support
- Home Support Workers, Caregivers, and Related Occupations (NOC 44101)
- Nurse Aides, Orderlies, and Patient Service Associates (NOC 33102) (work experience from institutional settings may qualify)
Applicants must have either six months of continuous and relevant full-time work experience in the last three years or have completed a six-month relevant educational credential.
Professional Training Requirements
For those without qualifying work experience, an eligible educational credential of at least six months completed within the last two years may fulfill eligibility criteria. This credential must be from a recognized post-secondary institution and align with the NOCs for either pilot, ensuring it meets in-person training standards.
Accepted Job Offers Under the HCWP
To qualify, job offers must:
- Be for an eligible NOC outside of Quebec
- Be for full-time continuous work (minimum 30 hours per week)
- Specify job duties, wages, and requirements
Genuine Job Offer Requirements include:
- Demonstrated employer need
- Compliance with all regulations
- Wages at or above the median salary for the occupation

Eligibility for Workers in Canada and Out-of-Status Applicants
- Workers in Canada Stream: Applicants must currently reside and work legally in Canada.
- Out-of-status Workers: Those meeting specific conditions can apply even if they lack legal status, provided they apply under the regularization public policy tools.
Settlement Funds Requirement
For applicants under the Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream, proof of sufficient settlement funds is essential. The required amounts vary based on family size, ranging from $14,690 for one individual to $38,875 for seven individuals. Additional funds apply for families larger than seven.
Application Fees for HCWP Programs
Applicants under either pilot program must consider the following fees:
- Processing Fee: $1,525
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $575
- Biometrics Fee: $85 per individual or $170 for families
Additional expenses related to medical exams, police certificates, and assessments may also apply.
Conclusion
The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots present a vital pathway for eligible foreign workers to gain permanent residency in Canada. With specific requirements aimed at ensuring individuals are well-equipped to provide essential care services, these programs enhance the social fabric of the nation while addressing immediate labor shortages in the home care sector.
To stay updated on the latest information or learn more about your eligibility, continually check guidance from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and other official announcements.