Set to Launch on March 31, 2025
Canada has long recognized the vital role that home care workers play in supporting families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. These dedicated professionals help maintain the independence and well-being of those in need while also enabling more Canadians to remain in the workforce. In a significant move to streamline immigration pathways for home care workers, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced new Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots set to launch on March 31, 2025.
Key Features of the New Pilots
The updated pilots aim to make it easier for home care workers to obtain permanent residency and find employment with a broader range of employers across Canada. These pilots will consist of two streams:
- Workers in Canada Stream – This stream will open first on March 31, 2025, and is designed for home care workers already in Canada.
- Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream – This stream will launch at a later date, with further details to be announced.
A One-Step Process to Permanent Residence
One of the most significant improvements in the new pilots is the simplified one-step immigration process. Unlike previous programs, applicants will not need prior Canadian work experience in the home care sector before applying for permanent residence. Instead, qualified workers will be granted permanent residence upfront, providing a more secure and streamlined pathway to settling in Canada.
Lowered Language and Education Requirements
The new pilots will reduce both language and education requirements to ensure that more skilled home care workers can qualify. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A Canadian Language Benchmark level 4 in English or French
- A high school diploma or higher
These adjustments make the program more accessible while ensuring that applicants still possess the necessary skills to integrate into the Canadian labor market.
No Prior Canadian Work Experience Required
Unlike previous home care pilot programs, applicants will not be required to have work experience in Canada. Instead, eligibility will be based on:
- At least six months of recent and relevant work experience
- OR a credential of at least six months in related home care training
- A full-time job offer in home care within Canada (excluding Quebec)
This change makes it easier for qualified home care workers from abroad to apply and transition directly into the Canadian workforce.
Expanded Employer Flexibility
Another major enhancement is the flexibility in employment options. Eligible home care workers will be able to work for a variety of employers, including:
- Private households
- Organizations providing short-term or occasional home care
- Home health care service providers
- Home care support service providers
- Direct care agencies
- Personal care services in residential settings
- Pediatric home health care service providers
It is important to note that recruitment or placement agencies will not be included in this program.
No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Requirement
To further ease the process, applicants will not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to qualify for the pilots. This will reduce barriers for both workers and employers, ensuring a more efficient and timely hiring process.
Next Steps
As the March 31, 2025, launch date approaches, IRCC will release additional details regarding full eligibility criteria and application procedures. Home care workers who meet the qualifications should begin preparing their documents, such as proof of work experience or relevant training credentials, to ensure they can apply as soon as the program opens.
These new Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots mark a significant step forward in recognizing and supporting the essential contributions of home care professionals in Canada. By streamlining pathways to permanent residence and expanding job opportunities, the program not only benefits workers and their families but also strengthens Canada’s economy and health care system.
If you believe you qualify for the Home Care Worker Program and would like assistance from one of our consultants, please contact us.
