Migration Overseas
Migration Overseas
Since 1998
Back to Pilots

Agri-Food Pilot

Federal Economic Pilot Program

Program Status: Closed to New Applications

The Agri-Food Pilot closed on May 14, 2025. Applications received before this date are still being processed. A replacement program is expected in 2026.

Program Overview

The Agri-Food Pilot was a 3-year program (May 2020 - May 2025) designed to help address the labour needs of the Canadian agri-food sector. It provided a pathway to permanent residence for experienced, non-seasonal workers in specific industries and occupations.

Key Program Facts

  • Annual cap: 2,750 principal applicants (plus family members)
  • Program duration: May 15, 2020 to May 14, 2025
  • Processing time: 12-18 months (historical average)

Eligible Industries

The pilot targeted workers in the following industries (NAICS codes):

NAICSIndustry
1114Greenhouse, nursery and floriculture production
1112Vegetable and melon farming
1113Fruit and tree nut farming
1121Cattle ranching and farming
1122Hog and pig farming
1123Poultry and egg production
3116Meat product manufacturing

Eligible Occupations (NOC 2021) (verify current version with IRCC)

Workers must have been employed in one of the following occupations:

NOCOccupation
82030Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors
84120Specialized livestock workers
85100Livestock labourers
85101Harvesting labourers
85103Nursery and greenhouse labourers
94141Industrial butchers and meat cutters (3116 only)
94140Process control operators - food (3116 only)
95106Labourers in food processing (3116 only)

Eligibility Requirements

Work Experience

12 months full-time, non-seasonal Canadian work experience in eligible industry within 36 months.

Job Offer

Full-time, non-seasonal, permanent job offer in eligible industry/occupation.

Language

CLB/NCLC 4 in English or French (all 4 abilities).

Education

Canadian high school diploma OR equivalent foreign credential with ECA.

Settlement Funds

Proof of sufficient funds (unless already working in Canada).

Residence

Must intend to live outside the province of Quebec.

What's Next?

With the Agri-Food Pilot now closed, IRCC is expected to announce a replacement or permanent program. Options being considered include:

Alternative Pathways

If you're an agri-food worker, consider:

  • Provincial Nominee Programs - Many provinces have agriculture streams
  • Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) - For rural community job offers
  • Express Entry - If you qualify under CEC, FSW, or FSTP

Explore Alternative Pathways

Even with the Agri-Food Pilot closed, there are other immigration options. Our experts can assess your eligibility for alternative programs.

Get Free Assessment
Home

Choose Destination

Our Services

Contact Us

Call WhatsApp Book