The widely-used program allows applicants to come to Canada to work either as a home child care provider with a Canadian family or a caregiver for people with high medical needs and become eligible to apply within Canada for permanent residence after 2 years of employment in Canada. Once granted, caregivers are given the opportunity to work for a Canadian family for up to 4 years and 3 months.
Caregivers are individuals who are qualified to provide care for children, and people with high medical needs, for example, elderly persons or persons with disabilities without supervision.
A Caregiver Work visa allows applicants who meet the requirements detailed below with the equivalent of a Canadian 1 year Post-Secondary Credential Visa, at least 6 months of training or at least 12 months of work experience to file an application. CIC has established 2 pathways to permanent residency for caregivers who are either; caregivers for children or caregivers for people with high medical needs.
Applicants require:
Designated occupations can include either a: Home Child Care Provider, Registered Nurse, Psychiatric Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Nurse’s Aide, Orderly, Patient Service Associate, Home Support Worker or related occupation. In addition, they must have a good command of either English or French. Training and experience in the areas of geriatric care, early childhood care, paediatric nursing or first aid care are all considered useful.
Caregivers are allowed to live and work in Canada for up to 4 years. Once caregivers have accumulated at least 2 years of Canadian work experience, they can then apply for their Canadian permanent residence while working in Canada. They can also include immediate family members in their application for permanent resident status and obtain permanent resident status for the family members at the same time.
To see a full listing of our fees and services, Caregiver Work Visa processing times and application costs please visit our FAQ page.