AGRI-FOOD IMMIGRATION PILOT
DESIGNED TO ADDRESS LABOR SHORTAGES WITHIN AGRI-FOOD SECTOR
The Agri-Food Pilot program is a Canadian immigration initiative designed to address labor shortages within the agri-food sector while offering permanent residency to foreign workers with relevant experience in certain agricultural and food processing occupations. Launched as a three-year pilot program in May 2020, it aims to support the long-term growth and sustainability of Canada's agricultural industry by attracting and retaining skilled workers.
Purpose And Objective
Addressing Labor Shortages
The program seeks to address persistent labor shortages faced by employers in the agri-food sector, particularly in occupations where Canadian workers are in short supply.
Economic Growth
By facilitating the recruitment of skilled workers from abroad, the program aims to support the growth and competitiveness of Canada's agri-food industry.
Permanent Residency
One of the key objectives of the pilot program is to provide a pathway to permanent residency for eligible foreign workers, thereby encouraging their long-term settlement in Canada.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Occupational Categories
The program targets specific occupations within the agri-food sector, including farm supervisors and specialized livestock workers, general farm workers, and food processing laborers.
Work Experience
Applicants must have at least one year of full-time, non-seasonal work experience in one of the eligible occupations within the three years preceding their application. your work experience must have been for paid work. Any periods of self-employment or unauthorized work will not be included when calculating the period of qualifying work experience.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in English or French is required, demonstrated through standardized language tests.
Educational Requirements
While not mandatory, having a Canadian secondary or post-secondary educational credential or an equivalent foreign credential can enhance an applicant's eligibility.
HOW TO APPLY
01
Employer Involvement
Employers in the agri-food sector must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate the need for foreign workers to fill specific job vacancies.
02
Job Offer
Applicants must receive a job offer for full-time, permanent employment from a Canadian employer in one of the eligible occupations.
03
Work Permit
Once the job offer and LMIA are secured, applicants can apply for a temporary work permit to work in Canada.
04
Permanent Residency Application
​After gaining at least 12 months of full-time work experience in an eligible occupation, applicants can apply for permanent residency through the Agri-Food Pilot program stream of the Express Entry system.
