Canada has visa programs that allow foreign nationals to work on Canadian farms and ranches. These programs provide a path to permanent residency for some migrant agricultural workers. If you are interested in coming to Canada as a temporary foreign worker on a farm, here is what you need to know.
Eligible Farms and Positions
Farms and ranches across Canada hire foreign workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program’s agricultural stream. The most common jobs are general farm workers, fruit and vegetable pickers, and animal farm workers. Employers must provide housing and meet other requirements.
Minimum requirements include:
- A full-time job offer from an eligible Canadian farm or ranch
- Meeting Canada’s minimum wage, housing, and labor standards
- Having the education, training, skills and experience to do the job well
Key Visa Pathway – The Primary Agriculture Stream
The Primary Agriculture Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program provides a direct path to permanent residence for some migrant farm workers in Canada.
To qualify for permanent residency through this stream, you must have at least 2 years of full-time farm work experience in Canada over the past 4 years. Proficiency in English or French is also required.
If approved as a permanent resident, you can live permanently in Canada, access most social benefits, and apply for Canadian citizenship. Family members can also get permanent status.
How Visa Sponsorship Works
To hire a temporary foreign agricultural worker, Canadian farmers must first get approval from Employment and Social Development Canada. This involves proving that they cannot find suitable local workers and agree to provide standard wages and suitable housing.
If approved, they can begin the process of sponsoring foreign nationals for 2-year Canadian work permits linked to their job offer. There is no limit on how many times a worker can renew a temporary work permit.
Visa processing times vary by country. Applicants must pass health and criminal checks. Processing fees also apply.
Key Steps to Getting A Farm Work Visa
If you are interested in coming to Canada as a temporary migrant agricultural worker, follow these key steps:
- Find a job offer: Connect with Canadian farms and ranches that use migrant labor. Getting hired is the first step.
- Help your employer get approval: Provide all required documents so your employer can successfully show there are no local workers available and agree to program conditions.
- Apply for your work permit: Once your employer gets approval, they send you key documents so you can submit your temporary work permit application.
- Come to Canada: If your work permit application is approved, you can come to Canada and start your new farm job. Maintain your status while working towards permanent residency.
Conclusion
Canada’s agricultural worker programs offer opportunities for foreign nationals to live and work in Canada, with a pathway to permanent status for some. Make sure you understand the requirements and process before pursuing farm work abroad. Add to Conversation
