New Pilot Programs in Canada for Foreign Caregivers

​Canadians families often hire live in caregivers to take care of their children, sick family members, or the elderly.  Foreign caregivers play an important role in the Canadian society, especially given the busy lifestyles of Canadians and aging population. So much so, that Canada is believed to be the only country that allows foreign workers the opportunity to gain Permanent residence after two years of experience.

To address the permanent need for caregivers by our society, Immigration is launching two new five year pilot programs for foreign caregivers, creating a direct pathway for them to become Permanent Residents of Canada. The two programs are called the ‘Home Child Provider’ and ‘Home Support Worker’ programs.

Under the new programs applicants will be assessed for permanent residence before they start working in Canada. This way, there is no confusion for the applicant when they arrive, as to whether they qualify for Permanent Residence. Attaining a two year work permit plus two years of work experience leads to a direct path to permanent residence. Another benefit of the new program is that caregivers can change jobs quickly because they will be given work specific work permits. This allows a caregiver to change jobs quickly, unlike previously where a temporary work permit tied caregivers to one employer. Also, the spouse of the caregiver can obtain a work permit and the dependents are eligible for study permits.

The previous program called ‘Caring for People with High Medical Needs’ left caregivers who arrived in Canada no direct path to remain in Canada. To remedy this, an interim pathway has been created for those caregivers who arrived in Canada in 2014. Applicants have until June 4, 2019 to apply for this program.
To learn more about the new programs and how to apply, contact Toronto lawyer, Janice Warren.