How to Immigrate to Canada as an Au Pair
APR 7, 2021
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NICKY VAN ZYL
Working abroad as an au pair is popular amongst young people, typically women, who have a passion for children and education as well as a keen sense of adventure. Au pairs are hired by families abroad to mainly help with childcare. They usually take the children to school and to any extracurricular activities, provide entertainment, assist with homework, and live with the host family. All-in-all, au pairs or nannies take on the role of child caregivers while exploring a new country. Some may even call it a working holiday!
The good news is that there is a high demand for au-pairs in Canada. Canada will be welcoming 5, 200 au-pairs in 2020 through the Caregiver Immigration Pilot, and another 9, 500 au pairs in 2021. Learn more about how you can immigrate to Canada as an au pair below!
Life in Canada as an Au Pair
Finding a Host Family
There are credible agencies that connect host families in Canada with eligible au pairs from around the world. One such agency is AuPair.com which can help you find the perfect host family in Canada for a fee. They even help you set up a contract and arrange a video call with the family. Finding the right host family is an important step to a permanent future in Canada. Living with a strange family for a few months is not a choice you want to take lightly. You want to ensure you and the host family are on the same page. Here are a few ways to do it:- Don’t be afraid of making your expectations clear. It’s better to be honest from the start before the contract is signed and you’ve already moved in!
- Ask to speak to the host families’ former au pairs. How was their experience?
- Consider the age and number of children. Are you up for the task?
- Think about how much you want to be involved in family life. Do you want to spend weekends by yourself instead?
Requirements to Work in Canada as an Au Pair
Minimum Requirements
- Typically you must be between 18-30 years old to work in Canada as an au pair to keep up with young busy bodies.
- French and English are the two official languages spoken in Canada. For this reason, it’s important to be able to have basic communication skills in either English or French, depending on your host family's home language.
- You must have a signed contract from your host family that clearly states your duties and responsibilities, working hours, wages/pocket money, holidays, accommodation, etc.
- You should get health insurance that covers you during the duration of your stay in Canada. It is possible that your host family may offer to cover the fees.
Other important requirements:
- You must be in good health. A medical assessment will be required.
- You may need experience working with children.
- Your passport must be valid during your entire stay in Canada.
- You must have initial funds. The exact amount varies based on your visa type.
Benefits of Working in Canada as an Au Pair
Out of hundreds of other countries, why choose to work in Canada as an au pair? The great thing about Canada is that they don’t only want you to work in the country, form a bond with your host family, make friends, and then leave. Nope, they welcome you to stay and apply for permanent residency through a unique program called the Home Child Care Immigration Pilot (see below) if you feel like Canada is the right place for you. Besides this unique opportunity, Canadians are also family-oriented, extremely welcoming, and friendly people who will make you feel right at home.
- Travel and Explore Canada: Depending on your contract, you’ll be able to explore different regions of Canada with or without your host family.
- Gain International Work Experience: Working in Canada is one way to improve your CV and future career prospects.
- Make New Friends: Meet Canadians, and connect with like-minded peers that you can hang out with when you’re off-duty.
- Experience New Cultures: Poutine, Beaver Tails, Ice Hockey, and The Great Outdoors are just a few amazing things that make Canada unique.
How to Immigrate to Canada as an Au Pair
Home Child Care Immigration Pilot
The Home Child Care Immigration Pilot has a unique application process. At the time of application, you’ll be applying for both your work visa and permanent residency visa. However, your permanent residency visa will only be processed and approved after all of the requirements of the Pilot have been met. What are the requirements of the Home Child Care Immigration Pilot?
- You must complete at least 24 months of work experience in a child care position in Canada.
- You will require an official job offer from a Canadian family which shows it will be a full-time position wherein you work a minimum of 30 hours a week.
- You must have completed 1-year of post-secondary school education or have 1-year of past work experience in childcare. However, if you only have work experience you must complete a one-year of post-secondary studies in Canada.
- You need to prove that your English or French language abilities are proficient with a mandatory language test.
- Excellent health and a clean criminal record are essential requirements.
Bonus Option: Working Holiday Visa
If it’s not a long-term commitment you’re after but rather 6-12 months of part-time work and full-time adventure then the Working Holiday Visa might be right for you. With this special visa, you don’t need to obtain employment first or meet any educational requirements. As long as you’re from one of the eligible countries below, you’ll be able to work in Canada as an au-pair while exploring the big, beautiful country.| Eligible Countries for the Working Holiday Visa |
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| Australia |
| Austria |
| Belgium |
| Chile |
| Costa Rica |
| Croatia |
| Czech Republic |
| Denmark |
| Estonia |
| France |
| Germany |
| Greece |
| Hong Kong |
| Ireland |
| Italy |
| Japan |
| Korea, Rep. |
| Latvia |
| Lithuania |
| Luxembourg |
| Mexico |
| Netherlands |
| New Zealand |
| Norway |
| Poland |
| Portugal |
| San Marino |
| Slovakia |
| Slovenia |
| Spain |
| Sweden |
| Switzerland |
| Taiwan |
| Ukraine |
| United Kingdom |
How We Can Help You Immigrate to Canada as an Au Pair
Immigration to Canada can be both complex and confusing. By using our accredited Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) you will not only optimize your chances of success in the visa application process, but you will receive expert advice on which program is best for your personal needs. Our RCICs are registered with the ICCRC and are legally permitted to assist you by evaluating your eligibility, reviewing all documentation, and submitting it to the Canadian government on your behalf. Don't risk your chances of living your Canadian dream. Let us make sure that all forms are completed correctly and sent in on time. All you have to do is complete our online form and we’ll take care of the rest. It's just that simple.