Current status: both Home Care Worker Immigration pilots are closed to new applications. IRCC paused intake until further notice and confirmed that it would not reopen in March 2026. Existing applications continue to be processed. There is no confirmed next intake date.

Understanding the pilots

There are two pilots: Child Care and Home Support. Each has a Workers in Canada stream and an Applicants not working in Canada stream. Both streams of both pilots are closed.

For applications already accepted, use the requirements that apply to the file. The language minimum is CLB/NCLC 4 in each ability. Applicants generally need either six months of qualifying continuous full-time work within the three years before applying or a qualifying post-secondary training credential from a programme lasting at least six months, completed within the two years before applying.

Relevant experience for Child Care includes NOC 44100 and specified assistant/helper/worker roles in NOC 42202. Home Support experience includes NOC 44101 and NOC 33102. The detailed exclusions and training conditions matter; an ECE certificate or unrelated support-work title does not automatically qualify.

For the Workers in Canada stream, applicants generally had to be living in Canada and authorized to work full-time in any occupation in a non-seasonal job. It was not a universal requirement to already be employed in a caregiver occupation. An eligible job offer as a home child care provider or home support worker, education and the other programme conditions still apply. Separate public-policy conditions can apply to certain out-of-status workers.

Existing files and other options

Keep temporary status and work authorization valid independently of any permanent residence application. VGIS can review existing files and other currently available pathways. Do not rely on a promised reopening date.

Official sources: Intake pause; pilot status; eligibility; experience and training rules.

Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and IRCC policies change frequently. For advice specific to your case, please book a paid consultation with our licensed RCIC-IRB. VG Immigration Services Inc. — Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308.