Permanent Residence Pathway Update for Caregivers Abroad

The pathway for caregivers abroad to apply for permanent residence through the Home Care Worker Pilots has been closed. The option for applicants not working in Canada was marked as closed on September 29, 2025, without ever opening.

While a separate intake for caregivers already in Canada remains available, it has reached its cap for 2025, meaning no new applications can be submitted this year.

Exploring Alternatives for Caregivers Outside Canada

Caregivers abroad can still consider other options. Occupations such as nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates (NOC 33102) are still eligible for Express Entry’s healthcare draws, with recent requirements set at a score of 470. Provincial nominee programs in Ontario, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador also continue to welcome caregivers under specific NOC codes.

Reasons Behind the Closure

The decision to cancel the overseas option was influenced by a significant backlog. Over 34,000 caregiver applications are currently in the system, surpassing the expected processing capacity for the year. Less than 5,000 cases are projected to be finalized in 2025.