Canada has announced new and improved caregiver pilot programs, replacing the current Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots, set to end on June 17, 2024. The new programs offer a pathway to permanent residence for caregivers and their families, without requiring prior Canadian work experience. These programs are also targeting caregivers in all countries, including Nigeria.
The previous pilot programs, while successful in attracting some caregivers, had limitations. They came with certain requirements, including a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 5, a year of post-secondary education in Canada or an equivalent program abroad, and a minimum of six months of work experience.
The new programs offer a more accessible pathway:
Permanent Residency on Arrival: Successful applicants will receive permanent residency status as soon as they arrive in Canada.
Lower Language Requirement: The CLB requirement has been reduced to 4, making it easier for Nigerians with good English language skills to qualify.
Work for Diverse Clients: Caregivers can now work for organisations providing temporary, part-time, or ongoing care for individuals recovering from illness or injury, or who are semi-independent. This expands employment opportunities.
High School Diploma Equivalent: A Canadian high school diploma equivalent is required, but specific post-secondary education is not mandatory.
Full-Time Job Offer: To qualify, applicants will need a full-time job offer from a licensed home care provider in Canada.
Work Experience Details to Come: Specific work experience requirements for the new pilot programmes have not yet been made explicit by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), although it is expected to be disclosed closer to the official launch.
Canada’s ageing population is driving a growing demand for caregivers. With over 9 million Canadians expected to retire in the next six years, the need for in-home and institutional care is rising.
How Can CLI College Help?
CLI College offers caregiving programs that equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the Canadian healthcare space. Students learn essential practices such as patient care, communication, and other vital skills. Completing a program at CLI College prepares individuals to meet the educational requirements of the new caregiver programs, equips them with valuable job skills, and boosts their confidence to pursue this fulfilling career path.
A recent report by the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence states the urgency of this situation. It highlighted that “many caregivers are 65+ and may also need care. Nearly one in five caregivers are over the age of 65. Senior caregivers are least likely to access any services or support to help with their responsibilities.”
Additionally, more women are entering the workforce, creating a demand for childcare providers. Data from 2023 Statistics Canada has revealed. “On an annual basis, the labour force participation rate for women aged 15 years and older and all education levels grew from 58.5% in 1990 (the beginning of the current data series) to 61.5% in 2022. The rate for men declined from 76.1% to 69.5% over the same period.”
Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated in an IRCC press release that “Caregivers play a critical role in supporting Canadian families, and our programs need to reflect their invaluable contributions. As we work to implement a permanent caregivers program, these two new pilots will not only improve support for caregivers but also provide families with the quality care they deserve.”
The 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan states that Canada anticipates accepting over 15,000 new permanent residents through carer programmes. As of April 30, 2024, about 5,700 carers and their families had obtained permanent residency following the start of the Home Support Worker and Home Child Care Provider Pilots in 2019.
