Agricultural Workers
Canada’s agricultural industry plays a crucial role in sustaining the national economy and food supply chain, and the demand for skilled foreign labour in this sector remains consistently high. The Agricultural Workers pathway, listed under the Special Groups section within the broader Work category, offers a targeted route for individuals with farming and food production experience to work in Canada temporarily, and in some cases, build toward permanent residency.
This work opportunity is available primarily through two programs:
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP): This stream allows citizens from participating countries—such as Mexico and select Caribbean nations—to work for approved Canadian employers during planting and harvesting seasons. SAWP workers can be employed for up to eight months per year in specific agricultural roles.
- Agricultural Stream under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Open to foreign nationals from any country, this stream allows employment in year-round roles such as mushroom or greenhouse crop production, poultry and egg farming, and livestock raising.
Eligible occupations under this category typically fall under National Occupation Classification (NOC) TEER 4 or 5 and include positions such as:
- General farm workers
- Harvesting labourers
- Greenhouse workers
- Animal caretakers
To apply, workers must receive a job offer from a Canadian employer approved to hire through the appropriate program. Employers must also obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), demonstrating that no Canadian workers are available to fill the role.
Work permits under this stream are usually employer-specific and time-limited. While these positions are considered temporary, some agricultural workers may become eligible for permanent residence through programs such as the Agri-Food Pilot or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
At RightWay Canada, we assist both agricultural employers and foreign workers with the application process, ensuring all compliance requirements are met. Our services include LMIA preparation, work permit applications, and eligibility assessments for long-term immigration options.
Book a consultation with our experienced immigration team to explore your opportunities under the Agricultural Workers stream. Whether you are an employer or a worker, let us guide you through the process and help cultivate a successful future in Canada’s essential agri-food sector.
