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Navigating the New Caregiver Pilot Program in Canada

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The introduction of the new Caregiver Pilot Program in Canada marks a significant shift in the immigration landscape for individuals seeking to work as caregivers. Launched on June 18, 2019, this five-year pilot program replaces the previous caregiver programs, namely the Caring for Children and Caring for People with High Medical Needs pilots. The Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot together comprise the new caregiver program, aiming to facilitate the immigration of qualified caregivers and their families with the ultimate goal of attaining permanent residency.

Key Differences from the Old Program:

  1. Employer-Driven, Not Employer-Specific:
    • Unlike the old program, the new caregiver program remains employer-driven but eliminates the employer-specific requirement.
    • Caregivers now receive occupation-specific work permits, granting them the flexibility to work for any Canadian employer or location within the designated occupation.
  2. Inclusion of Family Members:
    • In contrast to the previous program that allowed only the caregiver to enter Canada, the new program permits the entry of the caregiver’s spouse and dependent children at the work permit stage.

Eligibility Criteria for the New Caregiver Pilot Program:

To qualify for a work permit under the Home Child Care Provider (HCCP) or Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP), applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Valid Full-Time Job Offer:
    • Must have a valid full-time job offer from a Canadian employer, specifically in a private home where care will be provided to children or individuals with high medical needs.
  2. Education, Training, or Experience:
    • Possess education, training, or experience in the same occupation (Home Child Care Provider or Home Support Worker) for which they are applying.
  3. Language Proficiency:
    • Demonstrate language proficiency of CLB 5 in English or French.
  4. Canadian Post-Secondary Education:
    • Have one year of Canadian post-secondary education or an equivalent foreign education (Educational Credential Assessment – ECA report required for overseas education).
  5. Admissibility to Canada:
    • Must be admissible to Canada.

Application Process:

  1. Submission of Work Permit and PR Applications:
    • Applicants must submit their work permit and permanent residence applications for the entire family simultaneously.
    • If applicable, the open work permit for the spouse and study permit/visitor visa applications for dependent children should also be submitted concurrently.
  2. Processing Times:
    • Work permit decisions are typically made within 10-12 months.
    • Permanent residence applications are put on hold until the applicant completes two years of work experience with Canadian employer(s).

Transition for Existing Caregivers:

  • Caregivers already in Canada under the old live-in Caregiver or Home Caregiver programs can apply to convert to the new program or file for permanent residence, provided they meet the PR requirements of the new caregiver program.

How Mapdat Immigration Services Can Help:

Navigating the caregiver pilot program can be challenging, given its exemption from the LMIA process and the absence of work experience requirements. Mapdat Immigration Services offers comprehensive assistance, including:

  • Assessing applicant and employer eligibility.
  • Guiding through the application process for work permits and permanent residency.
  • Ensuring compliance with program requirements.

In conclusion, while the caregiver pilot program presents a seemingly straightforward path to immigration, expert assistance from Mapdat Immigration Services can make a significant difference in ensuring a smooth and successful application process. Mapdat is committed to supporting applicants and employers at every step, making the transition to a new life in Canada as a caregiver a reality. Visit Mapdat Immigration Services for more information and personalized assistance.

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