Foreign nationals looking to obtain permanent residence through Canada’s home care worker pilots will face new regulations starting in 2026.

In recent Ministerial Instructions released in the Canada Gazette, the immigration department announced a halt on new applications under these pilots from March 31, 2026, to March 30, 2030.

Prior to this decision, the pilots were anticipated to reopen in the spring of 2026.

The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot programs, including Child Care and Home Support, were initially launched on March 31, 2025, with applications accepted until March 30, 2026.

Both pilot programs quickly reached their application limits shortly after opening, offering pathways to permanent residency for individuals with job offers in home care or child care.

Applicants are required to have a minimum of a high school diploma, meet language proficiency standards, and possess the necessary work experience or training.

Due to annual application caps set by the government, the programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible foreign nationals.

These pilot initiatives can last up to five years before expiration, potentially leading to the establishment of permanent programs.