HCWP Home Support and Child Care Permanent Residency Applications Are Now Closed
No More Online Applications for Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot
The Canadian government has stopped accepting online applications for permanent residence under the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Home Support (HCWP:HS). This closure took effect on March 31, 2025, at approximately 2:25 p.m. EDT, after the program reached its annual limit.
Alternate Application Formats Still Available
Although online submissions are now closed, applicants may still submit applications in paper, braille, or large-print formats. However, these options apply only to individuals with accessibility needs or those unable to apply online.
In general, IRCC expects most applicants to use the online system.
Application Cap Reached for 2025
For 2025, the government set an annual cap of 2,750 applications under HCWP:HS. Importantly, 150 of these spots were reserved for out-of-status workers already in Canada.
Once IRCC received the maximum number of applications, it immediately closed the online intake.
When Will the Program Reopen?
At this time, IRCC expects the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Home Support to reopen for online applications in 2026. Therefore, applicants who missed this intake will need to wait for the next opening.
What About Applicants Not Working in Canada?
Currently, IRCC has not announced an opening date for the Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream under HCWP:HS. However, the government is widely expected to share updates in the near future.
Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Child Care Also Closed
At the same time, the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Child Care (HCWP:CC) also reached its cap. As a result, IRCC closed online applications for this program on the afternoon of March 31, 2025.
Alternate Formats Still Accepted for Child Care Pilot
Similar to HCWP:HS, applicants for HCWP:CC may still apply using paper, braille, or large-print formats. Nevertheless, IRCC advises most applicants to apply online unless accessibility issues prevent them from doing so.
Annual Caps for HCWP:CC
The HCWP:CC follows the same annual limit as HCWP:HS:
- 2,750 total applications
- 150 spots reserved for out-of-status workers
Once IRCC filled these spots, it closed the online intake.
What Happens Next?
Looking ahead, the government plans to reopen both caregiver pilots for online applications next year. Therefore, applicants who missed this intake should begin preparing documents early to apply as soon as the programs reopen.
Duration of the Caregiver Pilot Programs
Both HCWP:HS and HCWP:CC operate as federal pilot programs, which typically run for five years. If a pilot demonstrates strong results, the government may convert it into a permanent immigration pathway.
Could These Pilots Become Permanent?
Yes, that remains a possibility. For example, the Atlantic Immigration Program began as a pilot and later became permanent due to its success. Similarly, if the caregiver pilots continue to meet Canada’s labour and settlement goals, IRCC may introduce permanent caregiver pathways.
Conclusion
In summary, online applications for both HCWP:HS and HCWP:CC are closed for 2025 because the annual caps have been reached. However, IRCC continues to accept applications in special formats for eligible individuals.
Looking forward, the programs are expected to reopen in 2026, and there is a strong possibility that successful pilot programs could evolve into permanent immigration options. Until then, prospective applicants should stay informed and prepare early for the next intake.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
