Home Support Worker Pilot

The Home Support Worker Pilot is a Canadian immigration program developed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to help address the growing demand for caregivers who provide in-home support to seniors and individuals with disabilities. This program offers a direct pathway to permanent residency for eligible foreign caregivers who work in Canada and gain the required experience.

Key Features

• Enables foreign caregivers to work in Canada as home support workers for individuals who require daily assistance.
• Addresses the national shortage of qualified home caregivers across Canada.
• Provides a two-step pathway — first to obtain a work permit, then to apply for permanent residency after sufficient work experience.
• Allows applicants to bring their eligible family members to Canada while working under the program.
• Recognizes previous caregiving or nursing-related experience as part of eligibility.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must have a valid job offer from an eligible Canadian employer to work as a Home Support Worker (NOC 44101).
• Must meet the required language proficiency (CLB 5 or higher in English or French).
• Must have at least 24 months of full-time work experience in the past 48 months in a related caregiving occupation.
• Must have completed a high school education or equivalent credential.
• Must pass all medical, criminal, and security checks required by Canadian immigration authorities.

Application Process

1. Step 1: The Canadian employer applies for and obtains a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
2. Step 2: The caregiver applies for a work permit under the Home Support Worker Pilot by submitting required documents such as job offer, LMIA, language test results, and education credentials.
3. Step 3: Upon approval, the applicant receives a work permit and can travel to Canada to begin working as a home support worker.
4. Step 4: After completing 24 months of full-time work experience in Canada, the applicant becomes eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR).

Benefits of the Program

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Caregivers can apply for PR after fulfilling work experience requirements.
• Family Sponsorship: Eligible family members can accompany or join the applicant in Canada.
• Canadian Work Experience: Provides valuable caregiving experience in a professional Canadian setting.
• Support for Vulnerable Populations: Enhances quality of life for seniors and persons with disabilities.