Toronto, Canada’s largest and most vibrant city, offers numerous job opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers, particularly in the domestic services sector. With a growing population, high demand for household support, and a shortage of local workers willing to take on domestic jobs, many employers are turning to foreign applicants to fill these roles.
For international workers seeking stable employment with visa sponsorship, domestic jobs in Toronto provide an excellent pathway to legally work in Canada, earn competitive wages, and secure permanent residency through various immigration programs.
This guide will provide detailed information on domestic jobs in Toronto, including types of jobs available, salary expectations, job responsibilities, qualifications required, visa sponsorship options, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a domestic job with visa sponsorship in 2025.
Why Toronto Needs Domestic Workers
1. Rising Demand for Household Support
With busy lifestyles, dual-income households, and an aging population, more families and individuals in Toronto require domestic workers to help with household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, childcare, and elderly care.
2. Shortage of Local Workers in Domestic Roles
Many Canadian citizens and permanent residents prefer white-collar jobs, leaving a significant gap in the domestic services industry. As a result, employers are actively hiring foreign workers to fill these essential roles.
3. Government-Supported Immigration Programs
Canada offers work permits and immigration pathways for foreign domestic workers under programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), the Home Child Care Provider Pilot, and the Home Support Worker Pilot. These initiatives help international applicants secure legal employment and eventual permanent residency.
Types of Domestic Jobs in Toronto with Visa Sponsorship
Toronto offers various domestic job opportunities for foreign workers, including:
1. Housekeepers and Cleaners
- Duties: General cleaning, vacuuming, dusting, laundry, and maintaining household cleanliness.
- Salary: CAD $15 – $20 per hour.
2. Nannies and Babysitters
- Duties: Caring for children, preparing meals, assisting with homework, and engaging in activities.
- Salary: CAD $16 – $25 per hour.
3. Elderly Caregivers and Personal Support Workers (PSWs)
- Duties: Assisting seniors with daily activities, administering medication, and providing companionship.
- Salary: CAD $18 – $30 per hour.
4. Private Chefs and Household Cooks
- Duties: Preparing meals, grocery shopping, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness.
- Salary: CAD $20 – $35 per hour.
5. House Managers and Domestic Supervisors
- Duties: Overseeing household staff, coordinating maintenance, and managing budgets.
- Salary: CAD $25 – $40 per hour.
6. Pet Sitters and Animal Caretakers
- Duties: Walking dogs, feeding pets, grooming, and cleaning animal living spaces.
- Salary: CAD $14 – $22 per hour.
Salary Expectations for Domestic Workers in Toronto
The average salary for domestic jobs in Toronto varies based on experience, job responsibilities, and employer type.
| Job Role | Hourly Wage (CAD) | Annual Salary Estimate (Full-Time) |
|---|---|---|
| Housekeeper | $15 – $20 | $31,000 – $41,000 |
| Nanny/Babysitter | $16 – $25 | $33,000 – $52,000 |
| Elderly Caregiver | $18 – $30 | $37,000 – $62,000 |
| Private Chef | $20 – $35 | $42,000 – $72,000 |
| House Manager | $25 – $40 | $52,000 – $83,000 |
| Pet Sitter | $14 – $22 | $29,000 – $45,000 |
Visa Sponsorship and Work Permit Options for Domestic Workers
Foreign applicants seeking domestic jobs in Toronto with visa sponsorship can apply under the following programs:
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- Employers must apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire foreign workers.
- Valid for up to two years with the option to extend.
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency.
2. Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP) and Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP)
- Designed for nannies, babysitters, and elderly caregivers.
- Offers direct permanent residency if applicants complete 24 months of work in Canada.
- Allows workers to bring family members to Canada.
3. Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP) – Limited Availability
- Requires an LMIA-approved job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Provides an opportunity to apply for permanent residency after two years of full-time work.
4. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for Domestic Workers
- Some provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, offer PNP streams for domestic workers.
- Requires a valid job offer and work experience in Canada.
How to Apply for a Domestic Job with Visa Sponsorship in Toronto
1. Search for Job Openings on Canadian Job Portals
Foreign applicants can find domestic jobs in Toronto on:
- Government job platforms.
- Online job portals.
- Domestic worker agencies.
- Social media job postings.
2. Apply to Agencies That Hire Foreign Domestic Workers
- Contact recruitment agencies that specialize in hiring international domestic workers.
- Ensure the agency is legally registered and authorized to hire foreign workers.
3. Prepare a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
- Highlight previous domestic work experience and relevant skills.
- Include references from previous employers.
- Emphasize ability to work independently and follow employer instructions.
4. Secure an LMIA-Supported Job Offer
- Find an employer willing to sponsor a work visa.
- Ensure the employer applies for an LMIA to hire a foreign worker.
5. Apply for a Canadian Work Visa
- Once you have a job offer with sponsorship, apply for a work permit through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) official website.
Benefits of Working as a Domestic Worker in Toronto
- Competitive wages and job security.
- Visa sponsorship and pathways to permanent residency.
- Flexible work hours and live-in options.
- Opportunities for career advancement in housekeeping, caregiving, and hospitality.
- Access to Canada’s high-quality healthcare and social benefits.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Adapting to a New Culture
- Learn about Canadian culture, language, and workplace expectations.
- Connect with community support groups for foreign workers.
2. Finding an Employer Willing to Sponsor a Visa
- Target large domestic staffing agencies and private employers who frequently hire international workers.
- Be proactive in networking and contacting potential employers.
3. Understanding Work Rights and Responsibilities
- Familiarize yourself with Canadian labor laws and workplace rights.
- Ensure you have a written employment contract outlining duties, wages, and benefits.
Conclusion
Domestic jobs in Toronto provide excellent opportunities for international workers seeking stable employment with visa sponsorship in 2025. With competitive salaries, flexible work arrangements, and pathways to permanent residency, foreign applicants can build a successful career in domestic services.
By applying through job portals, recruitment agencies, and employer-sponsored visa programs, foreign workers can secure well-paying domestic jobs in Canada. If you’re considering a move to Toronto for work, the domestic services sector offers a reliable and rewarding career path with long-term job security.