Canada is set to introduce new caregiver pilot programs, replacing the current Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot, which expire on June 17. The new programs will grant permanent resident status to home care workers upon arrival, eliminating the need for prior Canadian work experience.
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) level 4
- Equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma
- Recent and relevant work experience
- Full-time home care job offer
These criteria are less stringent compared to the previous programs, which required a CLB of 5, a year of post-secondary education, and at least six months of work experience. Further details on work experience requirements will be announced closer to the launch.
Key Points
- Caregivers can work for organizations providing temporary or part-time care.
- The demand for caregivers is increasing as Canada's population ages.
- Over 15,000 new permanent residents are expected through caregiver programs by 2026.
- The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence highlights the growing needs for caregivers, noting that many are over 65 and may also require care.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized the critical role of caregivers and the need for programs reflecting their contributions, ensuring families receive the quality care they deserve.
