Canada continues to open doors for skilled workers, and the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot (HCWP) is a remarkable opportunity for foreign nationals interested in working as home care workers in Canada. The HCWP has been restructured into two distinct programs: Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Child Care and Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Home Support. Both these pilots aim to bring skilled workers to Canada, addressing the growing demand for home care professionals. Let’s explore the eligibility criteria, application process, and what these programs entail.
Overview of the HCWP
The HCWP has been designed to meet the needs of two critical sectors: childcare and home support. Canada’s aging population and the increasing demand for childcare services have created a substantial need for workers in these fields. The program aims to streamline the immigration process for foreign nationals who wish to contribute to the Canadian economy by filling these roles.
The two primary categories under the pilot program are:
- HCWP: Child Care
- HCWP: Home Support
Each program is divided into two streams:
- Workers in Canada Stream
- Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream
Applications for the Workers in Canada Stream open from March 31, 2025, to March 30, 2026, or until the cap is filled. The Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream details will be released at a later date.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about eligibility, required job experience, educational credentials, and more.
Eligibility Criteria for HCWP Programs
To qualify for the HCWP, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, including language proficiency, educational credentials, and relevant work experience.
HCWP Child Care:
- Work Experience: Applicants must have six months of continuous, full-time work experience in the last three years as:
- Home Child Care Provider (NOC 44100) or
- Early Childhood Educator/Assistant (NOC 42202).
- Education: Applicants must have a secondary school diploma or equivalent.
- Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 is required.
HCWP Home Support:
- Work Experience: Applicants must have six months of continuous, full-time work experience in the last three years as:
- Home Support Worker/Caregiver (NOC 44101) or
- Nurse Aide/Orderly/Patient Service Associate (NOC 33102).
- Education: A secondary school diploma or equivalent is necessary.
- Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 is required.
For both pilots, applicants must demonstrate relevant work experience in one of the National Occupational Classifications (NOCs) associated with the program.
Professional Training Requirements
Applicants who do not meet the work experience requirement may qualify by completing relevant professional training:
- Applicants must complete at least six months of relevant education within the last two years. The educational credential must be at a post-secondary level and completed through a full-time, in-person study program.
Eligible Job Offers and Employers
To apply for the HCWP programs, applicants need a genuine job offer from an eligible employer. The employer must:
- Offer full-time, continuous work (at least 30 hours per week).
- Provide a job in an eligible NOC outside of Quebec.
- Be a private household, business, or non-profit organization with a direct employer-employee relationship.
Employers cannot be recruitment or placement agencies, embassies, or self-employed individuals.
Out-of-Status Workers: Regularization Policy
A unique feature of the HCWP is that out-of-status workers (those without valid work permits) may be eligible to apply. Under the regularization policy, foreign nationals who entered Canada on or before December 16, 2021, and have worked in home care roles (even without proper authorization) may be eligible to apply.
Settlement Funds
Applicants under the Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream will need to show they have adequate settlement funds to support themselves and their families upon arriving in Canada. The required funds depend on the size of the family:
- 1 Family Member: $14,690
- 2 Family Members: $18,288
- 3 Family Members: $22,483
- 4 Family Members: $27,297
- (Additional funds for more family members)
Application Fees
There are several fees associated with applying for the HCWP:
- Processing Fees: CAD 1,525
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 575
- Biometrics Fees: CAD 85 for individuals, CAD 170 for families
- Other Fees: These may include medical exams, police certificates, education credential assessments, and language tests.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating the complexities of Canadian immigration can be challenging. If you are interested in applying for permanent residency through the HCWP or other immigration programs, ICC Immigration is here to guide you through every step of the process. With years of experience and a team of dedicated experts, we offer services that ensure your application is handled efficiently and effectively.
Our Services Include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Whether you qualify for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other immigration streams, we will help you find the best route to secure your PR status in Canada.
- Work Permits & Study Permits: If you’re considering temporary work or study options, we can help you explore these pathways and eventually transition to permanent residency.
- Family Sponsorships: Reunite with your loved ones! We assist with family sponsorship applications, making the process smoother and quicker.
- Expert Legal Advice: Canadian immigration policies can be complex. Our professional legal guidance ensures your application complies with all regulations and maximizes your chances of success.
Instead of waiting for uncertain asylum outcomes, take control of your future and secure a clear path to Permanent Residency in Canada. ICC Immigration is committed to your long-term success and is ready to help you at every stage of your immigration journey.
Get Started Today!
Whether you’re already in Canada or looking to immigrate, ICC Immigration can provide the support and expertise you need. Contact us today to discuss your eligibility and begin your journey toward a new life in Canada.