IRCC announces extension to the Agri-Food Pilot, and the occupational cap is removed.
May 8, 2023—L’Orignal, Ontario— The Government of Canada recognizes the critical importance of supporting the labor market needs in the agri-food sector and fortifying Canada’s food supply system. Attracting and retaining skilled workers is a key element in the success of Canadian farmers and food processors.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, announced an extension of the Agri-Food Pilot, which will now remain in effect until May 14, 2025. Initially launched in May 2020, this pilot program facilitates the transition of experienced workers in the agricultural and food industries to achieve permanent residence status in Canada.
In a bid to better support employers and candidates, Minister Fraser unveiled the elimination of the annual occupational caps within the pilot program. Previously, these caps imposed restrictions on the number of eligible candidates allowed to apply for specific occupations. By removing these limits, a greater number of qualified candidates will now have the opportunity to apply. Throughout the year, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to introduce additional changes to the pilot program in a phased manner. These changes include:
- Expanding access to open work permits for family members of all participants in the Agri-Food Pilot, regardless of the participant’s job skill level.
- Allowing unions to verify a candidate’s work experience as an alternative to employer reference letters.
- Granting applicants residing in Canada the flexibility to meet either the job offer requirement (including the median wage requirement) or the education requirement (including verification of educational credentials).
- Accepting work experience gained under an open work permit for vulnerable workers, thus providing more workers with the opportunity to qualify.
These changes mark significant progress in addressing the longstanding labor market needs of employers in the meat processing, mushroom cultivation, greenhouse crop production, and livestock-raising industries. They aim to fulfill ongoing labor requirements by facilitating the employment of full-time, year-round workers. Additionally, these changes offer enhanced support to applicants and their family members, reduce barriers and vulnerabilities for candidates, and expand the pathway to permanent residency for experienced workers in these industries.
The Agri-Food Pilot complements Canada’s existing array of economic immigration programs, which encompass the Atlantic Immigration Program, the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, the caregiver pilots, the Global Skills Strategy, Express Entry, and the Provincial Nominee Program. By promoting the necessary skills and labor in the agriculture and agri-food sector, this pilot program provides a pathway for workers to settle in Canada, contribute to the economy, and meet the industry’s labor demands.
Do you need assistance with your immigration plans to Canada?
Book a free consultation now and let us talk!
