Nanny jobs in Canada are in high demand, offering a unique opportunity for foreigners seeking stable employment and a path to permanent residency.
With families increasingly looking for reliable childcare, this guide explores the eligibility requirements, top employers offering visa sponsorship, and how you can start your journey toward working in one of the world’s safest countries.
Eligibility and Requirements for Nanny Jobs in Canada
Here are the eligibility criteria for nanny jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship for foreign workers:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must typically be at least 18, though some employers may prefer candidates over 21 for live-in nanny positions.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 1-2 years of childcare experience is typically required. Experience in caring for children of various ages is highly valued. Babysitting, daycare, or nanny work can fulfill this requirement.
- Educational Background: A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement, though additional certifications, such as early childhood education (ECE) or childcare-related diplomas, are advantageous. Some families may prefer applicants with specialized training in child development.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French is required, as communication with the children and parents is essential. Many employers request proof of language proficiency through language tests such as IELTS or TEF.
- Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record is necessary for ensuring the children’s safety in your care. Employers will require you to submit a background check from your home country and possibly from Canada if you have resided there before.
- First Aid/CPR Certification: Many employers require or strongly prefer candidates with up-to-date First Aid and CPR certification. Some positions may require specialized knowledge of infant or pediatric first aid.
- Work Permit: You’ll need a valid work permit to work legally in Canada. Employers often sponsor the work permit through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, which demonstrates there are no qualified Canadians available for the job. Some employers sponsor a temporary resident visa (TRV) if necessary.
- Live-in Requirements: Certain nanny positions, especially those involving live-in arrangements, require candidates to reside with the family in their home. Live-in nannies often receive room and board as part of their compensation.
- Physical Health: Employers may request a medical examination to ensure you are in good health and capable of performing physical tasks associated with childcare, such as lifting, running, and managing multiple children at once.
- Childcare Skills: In addition to basic caregiving, many families look for nannies with specialized skills, such as managing household chores related to the children, teaching children basic skills, or assisting with educational activities.
- References: Strong references from previous employers or childcare-related positions are essential. These references demonstrate your reliability, professionalism, and ability to connect with children, which can make you stand out in a competitive job market.
How to Find and Apply for Nanny Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner
Finding and applying for nanny jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship as a foreigner requires careful planning, meeting specific eligibility requirements, and navigating immigration pathways.
Step 1: Research Eligibility Requirements
The first step in your journey is to understand the immigration pathways that allow foreign nannies to work in Canada.
The most relevant programs include:
- The Home Child Care Provider Pilot offers a pathway to permanent residency after obtaining relevant work experience.
- The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) requires a job offer backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Ensure you meet job-specific requirements such as a minimum of secondary school education, some childcare experience, basic English or French language skills (proven by a test like IELTS, if required), and optional certifications like first aid or CPR.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
Before applying for jobs, ensure you have all the necessary documents ready. Create an updated resume tailored to highlight your childcare experience, include references from previous employers, and ensure your passport is valid for at least two years.
Additional documents include verified copies of educational qualifications, language test results (if required), a police clearance certificate to prove a clean criminal record, and medical examination results if requested.
Step 3: Search for Nanny Jobs with Sponsorship
Begin your job search by exploring trusted Canadian job websites like Job Bank Canada, Indeed, Care.com, and Canadian Nanny. Search specifically for jobs mentioning visa sponsorship or LMIA support.
Additionally, reach out to licensed recruitment agencies in Canada that specialize in hiring foreign caregivers, such as Diamond Personnel or Caregiver Recruiters.
Networking on social media platforms, such as Facebook groups for caregivers or expats in Canada, can connect you with potential employers.
Step 4: Contact Potential Employers
Once you find suitable job listings, start applying directly to potential employers. Craft personalized applications highlighting your skills, experience, and certifications, and express your willingness to relocate.
Discuss visa sponsorship during this stage, as most employers will need to apply for an LMIA to hire a foreign worker.
Step 5: Secure a Job Offer
After applying to jobs, aim to secure a formal job offer from a Canadian employer. Employers hiring through the TFWP must apply for and receive a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
If you’re applying under the Home Child Care Provider Pilot, you can apply for permanent residence and a work permit simultaneously once you secure a job offer.
Step 6: Apply for a Canadian Work Permit
With a job offer and LMIA approval (if applicable), you can now apply for a Canadian work permit. Gather the necessary documents, such as the job offer letter, LMIA approval, passport, and medical records.
Submit your application online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal, pay the required fees, and wait for processing.
Step 7: Prepare for Your Arrival in Canada
Once your work permit is approved, make travel arrangements to Canada. Ensure you meet any health requirements, such as vaccination or quarantine rules, before your departure.
Upon arrival, report to your employer and begin your role as a nanny. This is a great time to familiarize yourself with local customs and settle into your new environment.
Top Companies and Platforms Offering Nanny Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship
Here are the top platforms and companies offering nanny jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship:
CanadianNanny.ca
CanadianNanny.ca is one of the leading platforms connecting families with nannies across Canada. They cater to live-in and live-out arrangements, helping families find candidates for long-term or short-term positions.
The platform often features employers open to hiring foreign workers and providing visa sponsorship. Eligibility typically includes childcare experience, a clean background check, and relevant certifications like CPR.
To apply, create a profile on CanadianNanny.ca and search for jobs specifying visa sponsorship.
Care.com Canada
Care.com is a global platform that offers a wide range of caregiving jobs, including nanny positions in Canada. Employers on the site frequently list jobs requiring foreign workers, some of whom are open to visa sponsorship.
Most employers require candidates with strong childcare experience and the ability to communicate effectively in English or French.
Interested applicants can visit their jobs page to sign up, create a professional profile, and apply directly to listings that match their qualifications.
Diamond Personnel
Diamond Personnel is a top-rated agency for domestic staffing in Canada, offering placements for nannies, caregivers, and housekeepers. They are well-known for assisting families in securing LMIAs to sponsor foreign nannies.
Candidates must demonstrate childcare expertise, pass a background check, and often provide references.
For more, you can visit Diamond Personnel’s job listing page and submit your resume with proof of your qualifications.
Nannies on Call
Nannies on Call is a high-profile nanny placement agency operating in major Canadian cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary.
They work with families willing to sponsor foreign workers under LMIA. Candidates must have childcare experience, first aid certification, and excellent references.
You can apply through their website at Nannies on Call.
ABC Nannies Canada
ABC Nannies is a boutique nanny placement agency that caters to high-net-worth families across Canada. They assist with LMIA processes and prioritize candidates with extensive childcare experience, advanced certifications, and strong references.
Interested applicants can learn more and can apply apply through ABC Nannies.
International Nannies & Homecare
This agency focuses on placing foreign caregivers and nannies with Canadian families willing to sponsor visas. They assist families with LMIA and immigration paperwork, making it easier for international candidates to secure work permits.
More Info: International Nannies Job Seekers page to view job opportunities and apply.
Benefits of Nanny Jobs In Canada
Nanny jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship are highly sought after for the wide range of advantages they provide to foreign workers.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency and Canadian Citizenship
- Competitive Salaries and Financial Benefits
- Accommodation and Living Expenses
- Access to Canada’s World-Class Healthcare System
- Employer-Sponsored Immigration and Relocation Support
- Job Security in a Growing Industry
- Paid Leave and Holidays
- On-the-Job Training and Skill Development
- Opportunities for Family Sponsorship
- Flexible Work Arrangements
- Additional Perks from High-Profile Employers
Nannies employed by high-net-worth families may enjoy unique benefits such as:
- International travel opportunities with the family.
- Access to luxury accommodations or facilities.
- Premium healthcare packages and performance bonuses.
- Invitations to exclusive events or gatherings.
The Average Salary for Nanny Jobs in Canada
Nanny salaries in Canada depends on level of experience.
By Experience Level
- Entry-Level Nannies: Nannies with less than two years of experience earn $14–$16 per hour, amounting to annual salaries of $29,120–$33,280. These roles often include on-the-job training.
- Experienced Nannies: Professionals with 3–5 years of experience typically earn $18–$25 per hour, or $37,440–$52,000 annually, depending on location and employer expectations.
- Specialized Nannies: Nannies with expertise in areas like child development, infant care, or working with children with disabilities can earn $25–$35 per hour, reaching annual earnings of $52,000–$72,800.
