Applying for Canada Express Entry as a caregiver and obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) involves a few key steps. While Express Entry is Canada’s main system for economic immigration, caregivers usually follow special caregiver pilot programs, not Express Entry directly. That said, here’s a breakdown of how it works and how you might qualify:
1. Understand Which Program is Right for You
Caregivers typically apply through pilot programs, not Express Entry, unless they have other skilled work experience:
A. Home Child Care Provider Pilot
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For those providing care for children under 18 in a home setting.
B. Home Support Worker Pilot
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For those assisting seniors, people with disabilities, or those recovering from an illness/surgery.
Both programs:
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Offer a pathway to permanent residence
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Require at least 24 months (2 years) of full-time eligible caregiver work experience in Canada
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Allow you to apply for an open work permit to gain that experience if you don’t already have it
2. Check Eligibility Requirements
To apply under either pilot, you must have:
> A valid job offer from a Canadian employer in caregiving (outside of Quebec)
> CLB 5 in English or French (language test needed – IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF/TCF)
> 1 year of post-secondary education (or equivalent via Educational Credential Assessment – ECA)
> Be admissible to Canada (no serious criminal or health issues)
3. Apply for the Pilot Program (Not Express Entry)
If you meet the criteria:
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You submit a permanent residence application and
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Apply for an occupation-restricted open work permit at the same time
This lets you come to Canada and work while your PR is processing.
4. Gain Work Experience (if needed)
If you don’t already have 2 years of eligible Canadian caregiver experience, you must:
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Work in Canada in the caregiver role listed on your job offer
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Accumulate 24 months of full-time experience within 36 months
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Once you have that, you’ll be assessed for PR finalization
5. When Can You Use Express Entry?
If you already have:
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At least 1 year of skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
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CLB 7 or higher in English or French
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A post-secondary credential
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A strong CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score
Then you could be eligible under Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) in Express Entry. This might be faster than caregiver-specific pilots, but your caregiver experience may or may not qualify depending on the NOC code.
6. After 2 Years of Work – PR is Finalized
Once IRCC confirms you’ve completed the required work:
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You’ll be granted Permanent Residence
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Family members can also apply to join you as PRs
Summary Pathway
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check if your caregiver job matches the eligible NOC |
| 2 | Get a valid job offer |
| 3 | Gather documents: language test, ECA, resume, police certs |
| 4 | Apply for PR + caregiver work permit |
| 5 | Work for 24 months in Canada as a caregiver |
| 6 | Submit proof of experience and finalize PR |