In a strategic move, Canada welcomes caregivers with open arms, in contrast to the UK’s recent policy shift. The IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) has not only embraced caregivers with families but also streamlined the application process by reducing work experience requirements.

On Tuesday, December 5, 2023, among many other notable changes to the immigration rules, the UK closed the door to Caregivers entering the UK with their families.

Today, Canada has opened that door for any intending caregiver coming with their families.

Here are some key Changes to Canada Caregiver Program:

• Work Experience Requirement Reduction: IRCC has significantly reduced the in-Canada caregiver work experience requirement from 24 to 12 months for permanent residency.
• Pilot Programs Opening in 2024: Two caregiver pilot programs, Home Support Caregiver and Home Childcare Provider, will start accepting new permanent residency applications in January 2024, with limited spots.

Caregivers Pilot Programs Overview:
Both pilot programs had a total cap of 5,500 applications in different categories in 2023, with spots filling rapidly upon program openings. In February 2023, IRCC lowered the eligibility requirement to 12-month experience for in-Canada caregiver provider pilots, down from the previous 24-month experience.

The Categories Under Caregivers Pilots are:

A. Gaining Experience Category:

For applicants with less than 24 months of experience.
In-Canada caregivers now require only 12 months of experience.
Eligible candidates get a work permit to accumulate 24 months of experience in Canada.

B. Direct to Permanent Residency (PR) Category:

For applicants with 24 months or more experience in the last 36 months.
In-Canada caregivers now need 12 months of experience.
PR application requires at least 24 months of full-time work experience, post-secondary education of at least 1 year, and relevant training.

Some occupations Eligible for Caregivers Program are;

Home Child Care Providers (NOC 44100): Includes babysitters, nannies, and childcare live-in caregivers.
Home Support Worker Pilot (NOC 44101): Comprises of family caregivers, personal care attendants, and home support workers.

For more details of the Canada Immigration Programs Opening to New Applicants in 2024, you can visit the Canadian official immigration website here to read more.

Also , Canada’s ambitious plan aims to welcome over 485,000 new immigrants in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025.

Diverse immigration programs, including economic, family, and refugee categories, contribute to this significant intake.
Last thing before you go, as an aspiring immigrant, we encourage you to prepare ahead, ensuring all requirements are met with supporting documents for a successful application in these sought-after programs.

Got any questions regarding immigration to Canada, reach out to us so we can help you achieve your Canada immigration dream.