Current status
The two Home Care Worker Immigration pilots, for child care and home support, opened on March 31, 2025. IRCC paused new applications on December 19, 2025 because demand far exceeded the spaces available, and confirmed they would not reopen as planned in March 2026. IRCC has indicated that intake will not resume for several years. Applications already submitted, and those under the earlier caregiver programs, continue to be processed.
Options while the pilots are paused
- LMIA-based work permits: families can still hire a caregiver through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, subject to the LMIA rules for in-home caregivers.
- Express Entry and provincial streams: caregivers with qualifying Canadian experience, strong language scores and education may qualify, particularly for categories and provincial streams focused on healthcare and social services.
- Family routes: where a caregiver has a spouse or partner in Canada, sponsorship may be available.
If your application is already in process
Keep your temporary status valid, because a pending PR application does not automatically extend it. Respond quickly to any IRCC request. If you change employers or jobs, check the effect on your application first. We review pending caregiver files and help with extensions and requests.
Last reviewed November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration law and IRB procedure change often; we confirm the current rules for your file at your consultation.