Canada’s agriculture and agri-food industry is a key driver of the nation’s economy, contributing over $110 billion annually to GDP. To address labor shortages in this sector, the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot offers eligible temporary foreign workers a direct pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
What is the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot?
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot Program is designed to help temporary foreign workers in the agriculture, meat processing, and agri-food industries transition to permanent residency in Canada. Each year, up to 2,750 applicants are accepted under this program.
Eligibility Requirements for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
To qualify for permanent residence under the Agri-Food Pilot, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Canadian Work Experience: At least 12 months of full-time, non-seasonal work experience in an eligible occupation under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
- Job Offer: A full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a Canadian employer in one of the eligible industries and occupations (excluding Quebec).
- Language Proficiency: Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 in either English or French.
- Education Requirement: Must have at least a high school diploma or its foreign equivalent.
- Settlement Funds (If Applicable): Applicants must show proof of funds to support themselves and their family unless already working in Canada.
- Valid Temporary Resident Status: If currently in Canada, applicants must maintain their temporary resident status throughout the application process.
Eligible Occupations and Industries for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
The following occupations and industries are eligible under this immigration pathway:
Meat Processing Industry
- Retail Butcher
- Industrial Butcher
- Food Processing Laborer
Mushroom and Greenhouse Crop Production
- Harvesting Laborer (for year-round mushroom production and greenhouse crop production)
- General Farm Worker (for year-round mushroom production and greenhouse crop production)
- Farm Supervisor and Specialized Livestock Worker
Livestock Production
- General Farm Worker
- Farm Supervisor and Specialized Livestock Worker
Benefits of the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
- A Fast-Track Route to Permanent Residency – The program offers a clear and direct pathway for foreign workers in the agriculture and agri-food sector to obtain permanent residence in Canada.
- No Need for LMIA Renewal – Eligible employers in the meat processing sector receive a two-year LMIA, reducing paperwork and allowing workers more stability.
- Support for Workers – Employers must show a plan to support temporary workers in their permanent residency journey.
- High Demand Occupations – With ongoing labor shortages in agriculture, meat processing, and agri-food sectors, the pilot presents strong job security and career growth opportunities.
Two-Year LMIA for Employers in Meat Processing
Under the Agri-Food Pilot, meat processing employers can obtain a two-year LMIA if they commit to supporting their foreign workers in obtaining permanent residency. Requirements include:
- Unionized meat processors must provide a letter of support from their union.
- Non-unionized meat processors must meet additional conditions to protect migrant workers and ensure labor market fairness.
How to Apply for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
Confirm that you meet the work experience, job offer, language, and education requirements.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Collect all necessary supporting documents, including proof of employment and settlement funds.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Complete and submit your permanent residence application under the Agri-Food Pilot.
Step 4: Receive Permanent Resident Status
If eligible, obtain permanent resident status and continue contributing to Canada’s growing agriculture and agri-food sector.
Why Choose Canada’s Agri-Food Immigration Pilot?
- A clear pathway to permanent residency for agricultural workers
- Addresses labor shortages in the agri-food industry
- Welcomes skilled workers in high-demand sectors
- Supports economic growth and food production in Canada
Start Your Canadian Immigration Journey Today
If you have experience in meat processing, greenhouse farming, or livestock production, this is your chance to secure permanent residency in Canada through the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot.