Canada’s Agri-Food Immigration Pilot is a new immigration program designed to address labor shortages in the agri-food sector, which includes primary agriculture and food processing industries. The program was launched in May 2020 and will run until May 2023, with a total of 2,750 applications expected to be processed.

The program is designed to help employers in the agri-food sector hire foreign workers to fill labor gaps by providing them with a pathway to permanent residency. Here’s what you need to know about the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot:

1. Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the program, you must have a valid job offer from an employer in the agri-food sector in one of the participating provinces. You must also meet the language and education requirements, have enough money to support yourself and your family members during your stay in Canada, and have a work permit.

2. Participating Provinces

The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot is only available in certain provinces, which include British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Employers in these provinces can participate in the program and offer job opportunities to eligible candidates.

3. Job Categories

The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot has two job categories: the meat processing occupation and the general agriculture occupation. Candidates must have a job offer in one of these categories to be eligible for the program. Each category has specific requirements that candidates must meet, such as work experience and education.

4. Application Process

To apply for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, you must follow a two-step application process. First, you must submit an application for a temporary work permit to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once your work permit is approved, you can then apply for permanent residency through the pilot program.

5. Permanent Residency

The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot offers a pathway to permanent residency for eligible candidates. To obtain permanent residency, you must work in Canada for a minimum of one year in the occupation listed on your work permit. You must also meet the program’s eligibility requirements and have a valid job offer.

In conclusion, the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot is a great way for eligible candidates to work in Canada’s agri-food sector and obtain permanent residency. If you’re interested in applying, make sure to check your eligibility, find a job offer in one of the participating provinces, and follow the application process. With proper planning and guidance, you can make your dream of working and living in Canada a reality.