The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot Program (AFIP) is a strategic initiative by the Canadian government designed to address labor shortages in the agri-food sector, a critical component of the country’s economy. This pilot program provides foreign workers in specific agri-food occupations with a pathway to permanent residency, ensuring that the agricultural and food production industries have access to a steady and reliable workforce.
For skilled workers, particularly those already contributing to these industries under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), this pilot is an excellent opportunity to transition to permanent residency while continuing to support Canada’s food security and economic goals. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the program, eligibility requirements, application process, and tips for success.
Understanding the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot was introduced in 2020 and is scheduled to run until May 2025. Its primary focus is to fill labor gaps in specific agricultural and food processing industries, helping address chronic workforce shortages in these essential sectors.
Key Objectives
- Support the Agri-Food Sector: Ensure a stable workforce for industries critical to Canada’s economy and food supply chain.
- Offer a Pathway to Permanent Residency: Provide skilled and experienced foreign workers a reliable path to settle permanently in Canada.
- Encourage Regional Development: Target rural and regional areas where agri-food operations are most concentrated.
Sectors and Occupations Covered
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot is tailored for specific industries and occupations. Understanding whether your current job falls within the program’s eligibility criteria is essential.
Eligible Sectors
- Meat Product Manufacturing
- Greenhouse, Nursery, and Floriculture Production
- Animal Production (excluding aquaculture)
- Mushroom Production
Eligible Occupations
Below are examples of roles eligible for the program:
- NOC 8252: Farm Supervisors and Specialized Livestock Workers.
- NOC 9462: Industrial Butchers and Meat Cutters, Poultry Preparers.
- NOC 9617: Food Processing Laborers.
- NOC 8611: Harvesting Laborers.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, applicants must meet several criteria. These requirements ensure that the program benefits those with relevant skills and experience in eligible sectors.
1. Work Experience
- You must have completed at least 1 year (1,560 hours) of full-time, non-seasonal work in an eligible occupation within Canada.
- This experience must have been obtained under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
2. Job Offer
- Applicants must have a valid, full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a Canadian employer in one of the eligible sectors.
- The job offer must be located outside of Quebec.
3. Language Proficiency
- A minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 in all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
- Accepted tests include IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, and TCF.
4. Education
- Applicants must have completed at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Foreign credentials must be evaluated by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization.
5. Settlement Funds
- Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members unless they are already working in Canada.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for permanent residency under the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot involves several steps. Here’s how to navigate the process:
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Use the Government of Canada’s Eligibility Tool to confirm that you meet all program requirements.
Step 2: Secure a Valid Job Offer
Ensure your employer is offering a full-time, non-seasonal job in an eligible sector.
- Employers may need to demonstrate their compliance with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) requirements.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Collect all necessary documents to support your application.
Required Documents
- Proof of Work Experience
- Pay stubs.
- Letters from employers detailing job duties, hours, and responsibilities.
- Valid Job Offer
- Signed offer letter specifying job details and location.
- Language Proficiency Results
- Test results from an approved language assessment organization.
- Education Credentials
- High school diploma or equivalent, plus ECA report if applicable.
- Proof of Settlement Funds
- Bank statements or financial documents showing adequate savings.
- Identity Documents
- Passport.
- Previous work permits.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the Permanent Residence Application Form (IMM 0008) and include additional required forms:
- Schedule A: Background/Declaration (IMM 5669).
- Additional Family Information (IMM 5406).
Download forms from the IRCC website.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fees
The current fees for permanent residency under the pilot are as follows:
- Principal Applicant: CAD $1,365.
- Dependent Children: CAD $230 per child.
Payments can be made online through the IRCC Payment Portal.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application, along with all supporting documents, online or via mail to the designated processing center.
Step 7: Attend Biometrics Appointment
Applicants must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a designated Visa Application Center (VAC).
Step 8: Wait for Decision
Processing times for the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot typically range from 12 to 18 months. You can track your application status online using the receipt number.
Benefits of the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
The program provides several advantages for foreign workers and their families:
- Pathway to Permanent Residency
- Eligible workers and their families can obtain permanent residency, allowing them to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada.
- Family Support
- Dependents can accompany the principal applicant, gaining access to healthcare and education.
- Opportunity for Career Growth
- Workers gain stability and the chance to further develop their skills in Canada’s agri-food sector.
Challenges and Tips for Success
Challenges
- Meeting Eligibility Criteria: Ensuring you meet the work experience, language, and educational requirements can be challenging.
- Processing Delays: Immigration applications can take months to process.
- Employer Compliance: Employers must adhere to specific requirements, which may delay job offer issuance.
Tips for Success
- Start Early: Begin gathering documents and taking language tests well in advance.
- Work Closely with Employers: Ensure your employer understands their responsibilities under the program.
- Consult Experts: Seek advice from immigration consultants or lawyers for complex cases.
Resources
- Agri-Food Immigration Pilot Program Details
- Language Testing Providers
- Educational Credential Assessment Organizations
Conclusion
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot Program is a significant opportunity for foreign workers to gain permanent residency while supporting one of Canada’s most critical sectors. By meeting the eligibility criteria, securing a valid job offer, and carefully preparing your application, you can successfully navigate this pathway to a new life in Canada.
For individuals with experience in agriculture and food processing, this program provides a stable future for themselves and their families, contributing to the growth and sustainability of Canada’s agri-food industry.