Canada’s reputation as a top destination for skilled workers and families is growing, with the country setting new records for immigration. In 2022, Canada welcomed over 437,000 permanent residents, surpassing previous highs. By 2025, Canada plans to admit 500,000 newcomers annually, driven by the country’s aging population and the need to address labor shortages in key sectors. Amid these ambitious immigration goals, Canada is introducing four new pathways to permanent residency, including the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots (HCWP), which will support foreign home care workers seeking to work and settle in the country.
Introducing the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots
The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots (HCWP) will launch on March 31, 2025. This new initiative is designed to make it easier for foreign home care workers to gain permanent residency in Canada. The program will offer a streamlined process that reduces language, work experience, and education requirements, allowing more home care workers to qualify and secure employment in Canada.
The HCWP will provide two LMIA-exempt immigration pathways. These pathways will allow home care workers to work and begin their journey to permanent residency right upon arrival in Canada, making it a more efficient and accessible option for international workers in this essential sector.
Two Streams for Applicants
The pilot program will offer two distinct application streams:
- Workers in Canada – This stream will open when the program launches, accepting applications from home care workers already employed full-time in Canada.
- Applicants Not Currently Working in Canada – This stream will open at a later date and will cater to those outside of Canada who wish to apply.
Key Benefits of the New Pilot Program
The new HCWP pilot program introduces a one-step immigration process, allowing home care workers and their families to obtain permanent residency without needing prior Canadian work experience. Additionally, the program reduces the required language and education levels compared to previous immigration options, helping more individuals qualify.
This initiative also ensures that applicants have the necessary skills to integrate into the Canadian labor market, making them valuable contributors to the country’s workforce.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the HCWP, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Language Proficiency – Applicants must have at least a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) level 4 in English or French.
- Education – A high school diploma is required.
- Relevant Work Experience – Applicants must have recent, relevant work experience or at least six months of home care training credentials.
- No Prior Canadian Work Experience Needed – Unlike previous programs, applicants do not need prior Canadian work experience to qualify.
How to Apply
For home care workers currently employed in Canada, the application process will include the following steps:
- Language Test – Provide proof of proficiency in English or French.
- Educational Assessment – Verify educational qualifications.
Applicants are advised to check the official IRCC website or visit for updates on the process.
The Future of Home Care Worker Immigration
The HCWP initiative offers a promising opportunity for foreign home care workers to gain permanent residency in Canada. With fewer barriers to entry compared to previous immigration programs, this pilot is expected to provide significant benefits to both workers and the Canadian labor market.
As Canada continues to grow its immigration targets to address demographic and labor challenges, pathways like the HCWP play a critical role in attracting skilled professionals to support the country’s aging population and expanding economy. Keep an eye on updates from the IRCC and start planning your next steps for a successful immigration journey to Canada.
