You must meet the following criteria to qualify:

• Completed secondary education (High School Diploma) or equivalent of Canadian High School
• At least 12 months experience in caring for children, elderly or disabled
• If you have education and training in nursing or teaching, you may apply as a live-in caregiver without previous experience. However, we strongly recommend that you have at least a few months experience - it will help you to find employment and it will be easier to obtain the work permit
• English or French language skills - you have to be able to understand and communicate with your employer, with your charge, and with many outside parties (doctors, sales persons in stores, government offices, etc.) While you may have been told that the standard of language skills is not high for caregivers, some visa offices will use it as a reason for refusal. It is important that you can easily communicate, express yourself and understand what is being said.
• You must be willing to live in the household of your employer - this requirement is the main condition of the program.

If your main objective is to obtain permanent residence in Canada, you must meet additional criteria: you and your closest family members must be healthy and have no criminal record. At the time of your application for a work permit only you have to pass the medical examination but when you apply for permanent residence, your spouse and children must meet the same criteria. If any of them is sick, you may be inadmissible and your dreams may be shattered.

If you satisfy the requirements – you can proceed to find the perfect nanny or caregiver job.