Canada is a land of promise for many OFWs, including caregivers. These dedicated individuals play a vital role in Canadian families’ lives and the healthcare system. However, despite their hard work, many caregivers find it tough to become permanent residents.
In this article, we’ll explore the challenges caregivers face in securing permanent residency in Canada. From complex rules to bureaucratic hurdles and changing immigration laws, we’ll uncover the obstacles preventing caregivers from building a stable future in Canada.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Caregivers’ Struggle for Permanent Residency in Canada
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from Ina Andolong-Chavenia. In this video, the OFW vlogger interviews a settlement counselor at an agency in Toronto. The counselor responds to several questions related to the caregiver pathway to getting a permanent residency in Canada. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
The pathway to permanent residency for caregivers in Canada, particularly for Filipinos, involves several steps and programs. Historically, the most common route for caregivers to obtain permanent residency was through the Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP). However, this program closed to new applicants in 2014 and was replaced by two new caregiver immigration pilots.
These new pilots aim to provide caregivers with clearer pathways to permanent residency and greater flexibility in their work arrangements. Under these programs, caregivers can apply for permanent residency after gaining two years of Canadian work experience as a home child care provider or home support worker.
For Filipino caregivers, the process typically starts with the following steps:
- Obtain a job offer from a Canadian employer willing to sponsor under a caregiver pilot program.
- Apply for a work permit to come to Canada and begin employment.
- Accumulate two years of full-time work experience in designated occupation while working in Canada.
- Submit an application for permanent residency through a caregiver immigration pilot program.
- Provide documentation to demonstrate work experience, language proficiency, and other requirements specified by IRCC.
- Stay informed about changes to immigration policies and program requirements.
- Seek guidance from immigration consultants or legal professionals specializing in caregiver immigration.
Concerns About the Caregiver Pathway
Many Filipinos are worried about the caregiver pathway in Canada. The Live-in Caregiver Program has been abolished by the Canadian government, leaving caregivers uncertain about their future.
Now, there are two replacement programs: the Home Child Care Provider Pilot Program and the High Medical Needs Pilot Program. But these programs are set to end in June 2024, after running for five years.
This leaves caregivers in Canada and those hoping to work there in a tough spot. What happens to those who are on this pathway but haven’t become permanent residents yet?
As caregivers face these changes, it’s important to stay updated on Canadian immigration policies. Seeking advice from immigration experts can also provide helpful guidance during this uncertain time.
While the future remains unclear, staying informed and seeking support can help ease some of the worries for caregivers in Canada.
Some Barriers to PR Qualification
For many caregivers, meeting the requirements for permanent residency in Canada can be challenging. Here are some key points to consider:
- Language Proficiency: Passing the language proficiency test is crucial. However, many caregivers struggle with this requirement due to feeling overwhelmed during the exam or lacking time for adequate preparation. English proficiency at a high level is necessary.
- Educational Requirement: Caregivers must have at least post-secondary level education.
- Admissibility Requirement: To qualify, caregivers must meet medical and criminal history criteria. They need to be physically fit with no contagious diseases and no criminal record.
- Submitting Applications on Time: It’s important to submit applications before the government’s cut-off date. Once the program closes, new applications won’t be accepted.
- Options if You Haven’t Qualified: If you haven’t met the criteria, keep your work permit up to date and continue working in Canada. This adds to your experience and shows the government your commitment to staying in Canada.
- Staying Engaged: Even if you haven’t qualified, stay engaged and active. Show the government that you’re committed to remaining in Canada. When the program reopens, your continued engagement may strengthen your application.
Testing for English
- Stay Calm and Relaxed: Many caregivers get nervous and overwhelmed during the English test, leading to failure. Try to stay calm and relaxed during the exam to perform your best.
- Mental Preparation: Mental preparation is essential for success. Take time to review and familiarize yourself with the test format and content.
- Utilize Review Materials: There are many tools available online to help you prepare for the English test. Utilize review materials such as practice tests, study guides, and online tutorials.
- Practice Regularly: If you have spare time during the day, use it to practice and study for the English test. Regular practice can help improve your skills and confidence.
What Happens to Caregivers When Programs Close and They’re Not Yet PR
If caregivers find themselves unable to qualify for permanent residency, there are still options available to maintain their legal status in Canada.
- Application for Work Permit Extension: Caregivers can submit an application for an extension of their work permit. This allows them to continue working legally in Canada, provided they have ongoing employment with their current employer who is willing to offer continuous employment.
- Consideration for Future Opportunities: If caregivers are unable to secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for permanent residency, they can continue working with their current employer until the program reopens. When the caregiver immigration pathway becomes available again, they can reapply for permanent residency.
- Exploring Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: In some cases, individuals facing exceptional circumstances may be eligible to apply for permanent residency on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. However, this option is typically reserved for individuals from war-torn countries facing dire situations. Unfortunately, caregivers from the Philippines, as a non-war-torn country, do not qualify for this route.
The journey to permanent residency for caregivers in Canada is riddled with challenges. From language proficiency tests to program closures, caregivers face numerous obstacles. Despite these hurdles, caregivers demonstrate resilience and determination. Advocating for fair pathways to permanent residency is essential to support caregivers in their pursuit of a better future in Canada.