Obtaining a Canadian Work Permit for Seasonal Positions in Farming and Agriculture

1. Determine the type of work permit you need:

There are different types of work permits for agricultural work in Canada:

• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP): For temporary foreign workers from specific countries with a bilateral agreement with Canada.
• Agri-Food Pilot: For employing non-seasonal full-time workers in occupations related to agriculture and agri-food.
• Regular Work Permit: If you do not meet the requirements for SAWP or Agri-Food Pilot, you can apply for a regular work permit through a different stream, such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

2. Find a Canadian employer willing to hire you:

Reach out to Canadian farms, agriculture companies, or agricultural labor recruiters to inquire about available seasonal positions. Make sure the employer is authorized to hire foreign workers and has a positive record with the Canadian government.

3. Employer applies for a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):

The employer must apply for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to demonstrate that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the position. They must also show efforts made to hire Canadians first. Once approved, the employer will receive an LMIA confirmation letter.

4. Worker applies for a work permit:

Once the employer receives the LMIA confirmation letter, you can apply for a work permit through the appropriate program stream:

• SAWP: If eligible for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, you will need to complete the necessary forms and provide supporting documents, such as a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, a copy of the LMIA confirmation, and a contract or letter of agreement outlining the terms and conditions of employment.
• Agri-Food Pilot: If eligible for the Agri-Food Pilot, follow the specific application instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
• Regular Work Permit: If applying through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, complete the appropriate application forms and submit required documents, including the LMIA confirmation, job offer letter, proof of qualifications, and proof of financial stability.

5. Pay the processing fees:

There are fees associated with applying for a Canadian work permit. Make sure to pay the required fees and include the payment receipt with your application.

6. Wait for the decision:

Processing times for work permits may vary. Monitor the status of your application online or through the IRCC Call Center until a decision is made.

7. Travel to Canada and start working:

If your work permit application is approved, you can travel to Canada and start your seasonal employment in farming or agriculture according to the terms specified on your work permit.