Agri-food Immigration Pilot

An Introduction to the Agri-Food Pilot

The Agri-Food Pilot is a testament to Canada’s commitment to nurturing its agricultural sector. A well-crafted program, it is a gateway for those looking to contribute to the nation’s agricultural growth while pursuing their dreams of a life in Canada. This initiative is not merely about finding jobs; it’s about sowing the seeds of a sustainable and rewarding future.

The Agri-Food Pilot is more than a pathway for you to immigrate to Canada. It symbolizes Canada’s recognition of the pivotal role played by agriculture and food processing in its economic fabric. By providing a structured platform for skilled workers to join this sector, the pilot ensures a continuous supply of talent that can help the industry evolve and thrive.

The program offers a route to Canadian permanent residency for skilled, non-seasonal workers in designated industries and occupations. To apply, ensure you have:

• Eligible Canadian work experience in specific industries and occupations.
• A full-time, non-seasonal offer for a job in Canada from a Canadian employer in eligible sectors (excluding Quebec).
• Language proficiency in one or both of the Canadian Official languages, meeting or surpassing requirements.
• Educational qualifications meeting or exceeding the specified standards.
• Adequate settlement funds if applicable.
• Temporary resident status if currently in Canada.

Which Industries and Occupations Qualify?

Delving into the heart of the Agri-Food Pilot, one discovers a diverse range of industries and occupations that qualify for participation. The program spans the entire agri-food spectrum from crop production to food processing. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or a skilled worker in food manufacturing, there’s a place for you under the canopy of this innovative immigration initiative.

If you want to apply to the Agri-Food Pilot, you must:

• Demonstrate work experience in an eligible industry and eligible occupation
• Secure an offer of employment for full-time, non-seasonal work in a qualifying industry and occupation in Canada (Quebec not included).

Industries Eligible For the Agri-Food Pilot

Eligible industries receive classification from the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). When looking for a job in Canada, in this field, you can check industry definitions by looking at the industry codes below on its site. When you get your offer of employment, the employer must include the industry code in your job offer.

Industries that Qualify For the Agri-Food Pilot:

• Meat product manufacturing (NAICS 3116)
• Greenhouse, nursery and floriculture production, including mushroom production (NAICS 1114)
• Animal production, excluding aquaculture
• Cattle ranching and farming (NAICS 1121)
• Hog and pig farming (NAICS 1122)
• Poultry and egg production (NAICS 1123)
• sheep and goat farming (NAICS 1124)
• Other animal production (NAICS 1129)

Qualifying Occupations

When looking for a job in the Agriculture field in Canada, first check whether your occupation is eligible.

Eligible Occupations in Meat Product Manufacturing

Eligible Occupations Under Animal Production

Eligible Occupations for Greenhouse, Nursery, and Floriculture Production

How to Apply For Canadian Permanent Residency Via the Agri-Food Pilot

Step 1: Complete Your Application Package

Ensure the success of your Canadian permanent residency application by confirming that both your job offer and work experience meet the requirements. Failure to satisfy both criteria will lead to the rejection of your permanent residence application.

To expedite the evaluation process and prevent processing delays, submit a comprehensive application. Include all essential documents and information to facilitate a smooth assessment.

Step 2: Complete the Biometrics Process

If you fall between the ages of 14 and 79, you will probably need to provide your fingerprints and a photo (biometrics).

Determine the biometric requirements for your Application by checking the specific guidelines.

Upon application submission, be sure to pay the required biometric fee promptly to avoid potential delays. Upon receiving a letter instructing you to provide biometrics, comply promptly. You have a 30-day window from the date on the note to complete this process.

Step 3: Pay Required Fees Online

You must ensure that all required fees are paid to avoid delays.This can be done online.

Step 4: Submit Your Online Application

Before finalizing your application submission, ensure that you:

• Thoroughly answer all questions.
• Electronically sign your Application using your full name, exactly as shown on your passport.
• Include your processing fee receipt.
• Upload all required supporting documents.

Incomplete applications will be rejected. Correct any errors promptly and resubmit your Application for consideration.

What to Expect After You Apply

Embarking on the journey toward Canadian permanent residency is a significant step, and the application process demands precision and adherence to specific requirements. After submitting your Application, a meticulous review ensues to ensure completeness and accuracy. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) carefully checks that your Application is submitted within the annual limit for your occupation, the processing fee is paid, and all essential documents are included. Following this initial scrutiny, our communication with you is multi-faceted.

They may request your biometrics, confirm the application review, ask for additional documents, schedule an interview if necessary, and provide comprehensive guidance on the subsequent steps in your immigration journey. Your successful transition to permanent residence is our shared objective, and this process is designed to be both thorough and supportive.

Application Approval

Navigating the complexities of your permanent residence application involves a thorough evaluation based on your alignment with the program’s eligibility criteria and your overall admissibility to Canada, determined by medical examinations and background checks. Once a decision is reached, you will receive timely notification through your online account.

Should your application encounter rejection, a comprehensive letter outlining the reasons will be provided. You must then seek reconsideration by applying for a new application, meet eligibility criteria, demonstrating admissibility to Canada, and secure acceptance within the annual occupational caps.

Upon the approval of your Application, ensure the prompt payment of your right of permanent residence fee if not already done. Also familiarize yourself with the subsequent steps in your immigration journey.

FAQs

What Happens if the IRCC Finds Indiscrepancies in My Application?

Remember that the IRCC verifies your information. If you do not fill your forms truthfully, there is a chance that they will:

• Reject your Agri-food Immigration Pilot application
• Deem you inadmissible
• Prohibit your future applications for up to five years

When Does the Agri-food Immigration Pilot Application Window Open?

The application window opens on January 1 every year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.