Canada launched two new pilot programs for caregivers on June 18, 2019 that facilitate the hiring of foreign caregivers.
Both pilots provide caregivers with a pathway to permanent residence once they have two years of eligible Canadian work experience.
The pilots also allow the caregiver to bring family members with them to work or study while they are gathering their work experience.
Employers outside Quebec wishing to hire a caregiver from overseas must use the above two pilots.
This replaces the previous Temporary Foreign Worker Program system. If an employer submitted a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application on or after June 18, 2019, the application will not be processed.
If you want to hire a foreign caregiver who is already in Canada, use the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
You may also use the Live-In Caregiver Program if:
The Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker pilots do not apply in Quebec.
To hire a foreign caregiver in Quebec, apply for an LMIA through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
To hire a foreign caregiver, you must find a candidate either overseas or in Canada and provide them with a job offer. They can then use the job offer to apply through one of the pilots.
Requirements:
One the caregiver has the job offer, they submit two applications together:
Candidates who meet permanent residence requirements will get a work permit valid for three years allowing them to work for any employer in the specific occupation.
Work permit processing times can be as long as 12 months.
