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Agri-Food Program
The Agri-Food Pilot program addresses the labor needs of Canada’s agri-food sector, offering a pathway to permanent residence for experienced, non-seasonal workers in specific industries and occupations. Applications are accepted until May 14, 2025, and notable changes were implemented on February 10, 2024, providing increased flexibility for applicants residing in Canada during the application process.
Eligibility criteria for the Agri-Food Pilot include holding an eligible job offer, with the choice to meet either job offer or educational requirements for those residing in Canada. Educational requirements involve having a Canadian high school diploma or an educational credential assessment (ECA) report from a designated organization. Work experience demands at least 1 year of cumulative, non-seasonal, full-time work in the past 3 years, gained through specific work permits.
Language proficiency requirements mandate applicants to meet Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) Level 4 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Proof of funds is required to settle in Canada, with applicants needing to demonstrate financial capability unless already working in the country. The program imposes annual application limits, processing a maximum of 2,750 applications on a first-come, first-served basis starting each year on January 1st.
Applying involves ensuring eligibility, completing online applications, paying fees, and submitting necessary documents. Post-application, the process includes biometrics, medical exams, and regular updates on application status. Successful applicants receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if outside Canada, a permanent resident visa. Unsuccessful applicants receive detailed explanations for refusal and may reapply, meeting eligibility criteria and annual occupational caps. Overall, the Agri-Food Pilot provides a structured and accessible avenue for skilled workers to contribute to and settle in Canada’s vibrant agri-food sector. You can also explore other immigration pathways more suited to each particular situation.
Our immigration adviser’s dedication to excellence, integrity, and personalized service sets us apart as a trusted partner in your immigration journey. You can visit us at our office, book an initial consultation with our immigration consultants, and start your journey alongside our firm. You can also learn more about our immigration agency’s professional fees. Thank you for considering RightWay Canada as your immigration partner. Apply for permanent residence with confidence.
Recent draws
DRAW DATE
Feb 16, 2024
PROGRAM(S)
Agriculture and agri-food occupations
INVITATIONS ISSUED
150
LOWEST SCORE
437
Latest Updates
- Application are being accepted until May 14, 2025 as of now.
The following changes are introduced as of February 10, 2024:
- Applicants who reside in Canada when they submit their application may now choose to meet either the job offer requirement or the educational requirement
- Work experience gained under an open work permit for vulnerable foreign workers may now be counted towards the work experience requirement
JOB OFFER AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATIONAL CREDENTIALS
WORK EXPERIENCE
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
SETTLEMENT FUNDS
JOB OFFER AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
The program requires applicants to secure a job offer in specific industries such as meat product manufacturing, greenhouse production, and animal production. This offer must be for full-time, non-seasonal, and permanent employment, meeting stringent criteria regarding wages and conditions. The eligibility also extends to those residing in Canada, providing the flexibility to meet either the job offer or educational requirement.
EDUCATIONAL CREDENTIALS
Candidates must demonstrate their educational qualifications through either a Canadian high school diploma or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report. The ECA report should be obtained from designated organizations such as the Comparative Education Service, International Credential Assessment Service, World Education Services, IQAS, or International Credential Evaluation Service. The report must be recent, issued within the last five years.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Eligible applicants need a minimum of one year of cumulative, non-seasonal, full-time work experience within the last three years. This experience must be in one or more of the eligible occupations listed under the specified industries. Work experience should be gained through specific work permits, including open work permits for vulnerable workers or those based on a labor market impact assessment (LMIA) with a minimum 12-month duration.
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Language proficiency is a crucial requirement, and applicants must prove their abilities in English or French. The minimum language requirements are Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) Level 4 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Approved language tests include CELPIP, IELTS, PTE Core for English, and TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French.
SETTLEMENT FUNDS
Proof of funds is necessary to demonstrate the ability to settle in Canada, unless the applicant is already working in the country. Official letters from financial institutions are required, printed on the institution’s letterhead and including contact information, the applicant’s name, outstanding debts, and details for each current banking and investment account.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
PROCESSING FEES
ANNUAL APPLICATION LIMITS
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
The application checklist for the Agri-Food Pilot includes several key components that applicants need to submit:
Digital Forms:
- Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
- Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
- Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
Supplementary Information – Your travels (IMM 5562)
PDF Forms:
- Document Checklist [IMM 0116]
- Schedule 1 – Agri-Food Pilot [IMM 0114]
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union [IMM 5409] (if applicable)
- Separation Declaration for Minors Travelling to Canada [IMM 5604] (if applicable)
PROCESSING FEES
Applying for the Agri-Food Pilot involves various fees based on different scenarios. Below is a breakdown of the fees associated with the program:
- Your Application: Processing fee ($850) and right of permanent residence fee ($515)
Total: $1,365.00
- Your Application (Without Right of Permanent Residence Fee):
Total: $850.00
- Include Your Spouse or Partner: Processing fee ($850) and right of permanent residence fee ($515) per applicant
- Total: $1,365.00
Include Your Spouse or Partner (Without Right of Permanent Residence Fee):
Total: $850.00
- Include a Dependent Child:
Per Child: $230.00
- Biometrics Fees:
Fee for biometrics collection
Per Person: $85.00
Maximum fee for a family applying at the same time and place
Per Family: $170.00
ANNUAL APPLICATION LIMITS
The program processes a maximum of 2,750 applications annually, starting on January 1. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the annual limit is reached, further applications are not accepted, and application fees are refunded.
Program Timeline
Eligibility Check:
Before starting the application process, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements for the Agri-Food Pilot. Check factors such as job offers, education, work experience, language proficiency, and settlement funds.
Online Application Submission:
Complete and submit your application online through the permanent residence portal. Follow the detailed instructions in the Instruction Guide (IMM 0117) and provide all necessary forms, documents, and fees.
Biometrics and Processing:
After submitting your application, be prepared to undergo biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if you’re between 14 and 79 years old. The processing includes verification of eligibility, required documentation, and, if necessary, additional requests for information.
Decision and Post-Application Steps:
Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a decision based on eligibility criteria and admissibility. If approved, pay the right of permanent residence fee, and you’ll either receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) by mail (for those outside Canada) or an electronic COPR (e-COPR) uploaded to the Permanent Residence Portal (for those already in Canada).
Our Professional Fees
What is the Agri-Food Pilot, and who is it designed for?
The Agri-Food Pilot is a program addressing labor needs in the Canadian agri-food sector. It’s for experienced, non-seasonal workers in specific industries. It offers a pathway to permanent residence for those with a job offer in eligible occupations.
Can I apply for the Agri-Food Pilot if I am already residing in Canada?
Yes, if you’re in Canada, you may choose to meet either the job offer or educational requirement. However, residing outside Canada requires meeting both job offer and educational requirements.
What are the eligible industries and occupations under the Agri-Food Pilot?
Eligible industries include meat product manufacturing, greenhouse and floriculture production, animal production (excluding aquaculture), and more. Specific occupations are listed under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for each industry.
How do I prove my work experience for the Agri-Food Pilot?
You need at least one year of cumulative, non-seasonal, full-time work in the past three years in eligible occupations. This can be gained through an open work permit for vulnerable workers or a work permit based on a labor market impact assessment (LMIA).
What language proficiency is required for the Agri-Food Pilot?
You must prove your ability in English or French with a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) Level 4 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Can my family accompany me during the application process?
Yes, your family members can apply for open work permits, allowing them to join you in Canada and work while your permanent residence application is processed.
Are there annual application limits for the Agri-Food Pilot?
Yes, there’s an annual limit of 2,750 applications. Processing is on a first-come, first-served basis starting on January 1 each year.
What happens after I submit my Agri-Food Pilot application?
After submission, you may be asked for biometrics, medical exams, or additional documents. The processing time involves eligibility checks, and you’ll receive updates through your online account.
What if my Agri-Food Pilot application is refused?
In case of refusal, you have the option to reapply by submitting a new application, ensuring you meet eligibility criteria and admissibility requirements. Refusal reasons will be communicated in a letter.
