Canada Stops Accepting New Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot Applications
Due to a shortage of available places, Canada has temporarily halted new admissions for its Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots. While getting ready to launch the new "Workers in Canada" stream, the IRCC will continue to review applications that have been submitted.
There is a significant update that you should be aware of if you intended to apply under Canada's Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots.
New applications under the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots have been suspended by the Canadian government until further notice. Demand has been far greater than the number of available slots, according to officials, and the goal is currently to clear the backlog.
Only fresh intakes are subject to this delay. Under Canada's 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, applications that have already been submitted will proceed.
March 2026: No Reopening
Many had previously anticipated that the pilots will reopen in March 2026. That is no longer the case.
The government has confirmed that, contrary to earlier expectations, the programs will not resume in March 2026. There isn't a new date on the table as of now. As choices are made, updates will be communicated.
What Are the Immigration Pilots for Home Care Workers?
Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots are, to put it simply, immigration routes for those who provide home care services.
They are intended for home child care professionals and home support workers who assist families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities throughout Canada. There are two objectives:
Assist Canada in addressing the shortage of long-term caregivers.
Provide a straightforward route to permanent residence for qualified home care providers.
One significant advantage sticks out. A Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is not required for applicants under these pilots. This eliminates one of the most significant obstacles that many overseas workers encounter.
An explanation of two application streams
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published additional information regarding the new pilots' operation in January 2025. Two distinct streams exist:
Workers in Canada stream: On March 31, 2025, this stream launched for business. It is intended for caregivers who currently reside and work in Canada.
Applicants from streams outside of Canada: Later, on an unconfirmed date, this feed will open.
An Important IRCC Update
Candidates are encouraged to:
Check the government website frequently for updates.
Before applying, please review the eligibility requirements.
Consult an immigration specialist for advice unique to your situation.
What Applicants Should Know About This
Your application will still be handled even if you have already applied. You will have to wait if you intend to apply from outside of Canada. Timelines are unpredictable because to the suspension and delayed openings, and whenever fresh intakes resume, competition is probably going to stay fierce.
Concluding Remarks
For many caregivers who want to settle in Canada, these pilot programs are a crucial first step. The government's attempt to reduce the backlog and expedite processing for individuals who are currently waiting is indicated by the intake suspension, even though it may cause some delays.
