Canada plans to reduce work experience requirements for caregivers applying for Permanent Residence

On February 10, 2023, members of Parliament, on behalf of the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that Canada will be reducing their work experience requirements from 24 months to 12 months for caregivers to qualify for permanent residence. This change will be effective as early as April 30, 2023, and will be applied retrospectively for caregivers who have already applied.

These changes will result in caregivers and their families having access to a faster path to permanent residence. The IRCC has announced that they will continue making necessary changes to improve the overall processing and applications for the caregiver program.

Canada recognizes the immense contribution caregivers have made to Canadian families. The Minister of Immigration showed his appreciation when stating:

“Caregivers are an important option for families in Canada and have played an instrumental role in the lives of many growing children, aging parents, and those who need additional specialized care. By reducing the work experience required in Canada to one year, more caregivers and their families will become eligible to transition to permanent residence sooner, meaning that they can settle down and start the next chapter of their lives here in Canada.”