LMIA Caregiver Program: Hiring In-Home Caregivers in Canada
At Castle & Co., we specialize in guiding families through the LMIA application process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience in hiring foreign caregivers.
Program Overview
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Caregiver Program enables Canadian families to employ foreign caregivers for in-home care of children, seniors, or individuals with medical needs when qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents are unavailable. This program ensures access to skilled caregivers while adhering to Canadian labour regulations.

Quick Response Guaranteed!

Processing Times for LMIA Caregivers Applications
Processing times for LMIA applications can vary based on factors such as application volume and the specific stream under which the application is submitted. As of February 2026, the average processing times are:
In-Home Caregivers Stream: Approximately 24 business days
Please note that these times are subject to change. Employers are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance to accommodate any potential delays. Castle & Co. ensures that your application is accurately completed and submitted promptly to facilitate timely processing.
Hiring a Foreign In-Home Caregiver: Eligibility & Available Positions
Employers eligible to hire a foreign caregiver include:
To hire a foreign caregiver, employers must demonstrate a genuine need and confirm that no Canadians or permanent residents are available to fill the position.
Under the LMIA Caregiver Program, families can hire foreign workers for the following in-home caregiver positions:
Providing care for children under 18, including roles such as:
● Childcare Provider
● Live-in Caregiver
● Nanny
Assisting seniors or individuals with disabilities, chronic, or terminal illnesses in roles like:
● Registered Nurse or Psychiatric Nurse
● Licensed Practical Nurse
● Home Support Worker
● Personal Care Attendant
Caregivers in these roles must work full-time (minimum 30 hours per week) in the employer’s private residence.
Employer Requirements for LMIA Application
To successfully hire a foreign caregiver, employers must meet specific requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Certain employers may be exempt from the LMIA processing fee, such as those hiring caregivers for individuals with medical needs or families with an annual income of $150,000 or less hiring for childcare.
Ensuring all required documents are accurate and complete is crucial for a successful LMIA application. Castle & Co. provides expert assistance in preparing and reviewing your application to meet all regulatory requirements.
How We Can Help You Hire a Foreign Caregiver
The process of hiring a foreign caregiver can be complex, with strict requirements and documentation. We simplify the process and ensure a smooth experience by offering:
Expert LMIA & Application Preparation
We handle all necessary paperwork, ensuring compliance with IRCC and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) requirements.
Personalized Guidance & Candidate Matching
Our team helps you find the right caregiver based on your household’s specific needs, whether for childcare, senior care, or medical support.
Ongoing Support & Case Monitoring
We track your application status, respond to government requests, and assist with any necessary follow-ups to prevent delays.
By working with us, you can streamline the process, avoid common pitfalls, and hire the right caregiver with confidence.
Process for Hiring a Foreign Caregiver with Castle & Co.
Hiring a foreign caregiver through an LMIA requires compliance with strict regulations and a well-prepared application. Castle & Co. simplifies the process with expert guidance, ensuring a smooth and efficient hiring experience for your household or facility.

1. Confirm Hiring Needs
Our team evaluates your caregiver needs and ensures the LMIA process is the right solution for your household or facility.

2. Prepare LMIA Application
We handle document collection, draft a compliant employment contract, and prepare a complete LMIA submission.

3. Submit With Confidence
Our experts manage the online LMIA submission, ensuring accuracy and compliance to improve approval chances.

4. Track & Follow Up
We monitor your application status, liaise with Service Canada, and provide updates to ensure a smooth process.

5. Support Work Permit
Once approved, we assist the caregiver with their work permit application, ensuring they meet all requirements for a seamless transition.
16+ Years Immigration Expertise You Can Trust
Experienced Consultants
Your application is handled by licensed professionals, ensuring accuracy every step of the way.
Personalized Support
Receive guidance tailored to your unique situation for a smooth process.
Affordable Solutions
Benefit from reduced fees without compromising on quality.
Efficient Process
Our streamlined approach helps you save time compared to traditional services.
Frequently Asked Questions
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that permits employers to hire foreign workers. It confirms the need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian workers are available for the position.
Yes, there is a processing fee of $1,000 for each position requested. However, families hiring caregivers for individuals with medical needs or those with an annual income of $150,000 or less hiring for childcare may be exempt from this fee.
Yes, if the caregiver holds a valid work permit, you can hire them. However, a new LMIA and work permit application may still be required. Castle & Co. provides guidance on navigating this process efficiently.
Processing times for the LMIA move with application volume and can shift from one quarter to the next — for the current estimate, check the government’s official LMIA processing times tool before planning around a start date. Some families ask about the newer no-LMIA pilot for home care workers instead — as of now, both streams of that pilot (for workers applying directly and for employers hiring through it) are listed as closed on IRCC’s site, so the LMIA route remains the only active path to hire an in-home caregiver. Castle & Co. ensures a complete, accurate application to avoid the delays that come from missing documents — read our full guide on Caregiver LMIA: Processing Times and Requirements.
Required documents include proof of business legitimacy, a detailed job offer, evidence of recruitment efforts, proof of need for a foreign caregiver, and financial ability to pay wages. Castle & Co. assists in compiling and reviewing all necessary documentation for a successful application.
Employers must demonstrate genuine recruitment efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents before resorting to foreign workers. This includes advertising the position in specific mediums and for a minimum duration as stipulated by ESDC.
Yes, employers and caregivers can mutually agree on a live-in arrangement. However, it must be optional for the caregiver and provided at no cost. Castle & Co. assists in structuring agreements that comply with regulations.
Yes, families hiring caregivers for individuals with medical needs or those with an annual income of $150,000 or less hiring for childcare may be exempt from the $1,000 LMIA processing fee. Castle & Co. helps determine eligibility for fee exemptions.
Once a positive LMIA is obtained, the caregiver can apply for a work permit. Castle & Co. provides support throughout the work permit application process to ensure a smooth transition.
An LMIA is valid for six months from the date of issuance. The caregiver must apply for a work permit within this timeframe. Castle & Co. ensures all timelines are adhered to, preventing potential issues.
Find Out If You Qualify for an LMIA to Hire a Caregiver!
Complete the form below to receive an instant assessment of your eligibility to hire a foreign caregiver through the LMIA process. Castle & Co. will review your case, provide expert guidance, and help you take the next steps toward a successful application.

