⚠️ HCWIP Pause – March 31, 2026
Starting March 31, 2026, IRCC will stop accepting new permanent-residence applications under the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot. This pause runs until March 30, 2030 (unless changed earlier). Fees for applications submitted on or after that date will be returned.
Work Temporarily as a Caregiver
You may be able to work as a home child care provider (NOC 44100) or home support worker (NOC 44101) for an employer who has a positive LMIA through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This type of work permit application currently gets faster processing.
Gaining Experience for Permanent Residence
Updated June 24, 2024: You now only need 6 months of eligible work experience from inside or outside Canada to qualify for permanent residence under the gaining experience category.
Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots
The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots for Child Care and Home Support help skilled workers with a job offer in the field immigrate to Canada permanently. Canada has announced plans to make the caregivers program permanent.
Out-of-Status and Unauthorized Home Care Workers
If you're a home care worker without status in Canada or authorization to work, you may be eligible for the HCWIP under a special public policy.
Closed Programs
The following programs are no longer accepting applications:
- Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot (closed June 2024)
- Five-Year Pathway to Permanent Residency (closed)
Government Application Guides
- IRCC Application Guide 5069 – TR to PR Pathway
- Public Policy – Granting Permanent Residence for Foreign Nationals in Canada
Migrant Caregiver's Manual
CDWCR has produced a comprehensive manual to help migrant caregivers understand their rights and navigate Canadian systems.