Agri-Food Pilot
The Agri-Food Pilot is a pathway to permanent residency in Canada for workers in specific agriculture, meat processing, and animal production industries. It addresses labor shortages in these essential sectors.
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Agri-Food Immigration Pilot: A Pathway to Permanent Residency
Launched in 2020, the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot addresses labor shortages in Canada’s agricultural and food production sectors. This program offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for workers in these essential industries. Initially set to conclude in 2023, the program has been extended until May 2025 to continue supporting the agricultural workforce.
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Who Wish to Become Permanent Residents
Purpose of the Agri-Food Pilot
- Attracting and retaining skilled workers: By offering a clear pathway to permanent residency, the pilot encourages workers to establish long-term careers in Canada
- Supporting families: Participants can bring their families to live and work in Canada, fostering a sense of stability and community.
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Universal Adviser is here to answer your questions and guidance to help you navigate the eligibility requirements and application process for the Agri-Food Pilot.
Program Updates
Initially, the program accepted up to 2,750 principal applicants and their families annually. However, in 2023, this cap was lifted to accommodate more workers as part of the program’s extension to 2025. Agricultural employers participating in the pilot also benefit from a 2-year Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), simplifying the hiring process for eligible workers.
Eligibility Requirements for the Agri-Food Pilot
To qualify for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, applicants must meet specific criteria related to work experience, language proficiency, education, and job offers.
1. Work Experience
- Duration: A minimum of 12 months of full-time, non-seasonal work experience in Canada.
- Program: Work experience must be gained through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
- Eligible Occupations:
- Meat processing (e.g., industrial butchers and food processing laborers)
- Livestock farming
- Mushroom and greenhouse crop production
2. Language Proficiency
- Minimum Requirement: Achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 in either English or French.
3. Education
- Minimum Requirement: High school diploma or equivalent as assessed by a designated credential evaluation service.
4. Job Offer
- Type: Must have an indeterminate job offer (permanent position) for full-time, non-seasonal work in Canada.
- Location: The job must be outside Quebec and offer a wage at or above the prevailing market rate.
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A Future in Canada’s Agri-Food Industry
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot provides a valuable opportunity for agricultural workers to establish permanent roots in Canada while contributing to the country’s food security and economic growth. By addressing long-standing labor shortages and creating pathways for workers and their families to thrive, this pilot program underscores Canada’s commitment to supporting its agricultural and agri-food industries.
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