Canada’s Agri-Food Pilot Program to Accept Just 1,010 Applications in 2025!

January 21, 2025

Ishita Soni

Changes for 2025

Starting in 2025, the Canada Agri-Food Pilot program will have a reduced cap of only 1,010 applications, down from the 2,750 accepted in 2024. This change means you must act quickly because the intake will close once the limit is reached or by May 14, 2025, whichever comes first.

Why It’s Important

The program will wrap up in 2025, as it cannot extend beyond its maximum duration of five years. This year is your final chance to apply, making it a unique opportunity for agri-food workers looking to settle in Canada.

The Role of the Program

Since its launch in 2020, the pilot has helped address labour shortages in agriculture and food processing. Over 4,500 workers and their families have successfully gained permanent residency, with 1,775 workers joining last year alone.

Application Categories

For 2025, applications will be accepted in two formats:

1. Online Submissions: Up to 1,000 applications will be processed electronically, offering faster and easier processing.
2. Alternate Formats: For those unable to apply online, 10 applications will be accepted in alternate formats—just make sure they follow the specific guidelines.

Eligibility: Are You Qualified?

To apply, you must meet the following requirements:

• Work Experience: At least 1 year of full-time, non-seasonal work in an eligible agri-food occupation within the past 3 years.
• Job Offer: A permanent, full-time offer in a qualifying occupation.
• Education: A Canadian high school diploma or equivalent.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English or French at CLB Level 4 or equivalent.
• Settlement Funds: Proof of enough funds to support yourself and your family, unless you’re already working in Canada.

How to Prove Your Work Experience

To verify your experience, you’ll need to submit documents such as:

• Employer or Union Reference Letters detailing your role and duration.
• T4 Statements and Paystubs showing income and hours worked.

Eligible Occupations and Industries

This program focuses on skilled workers in select agri-food industries. Key areas include:

• Meat Product Manufacturing: Jobs like butchers, meat cutters, and livestock labourers.
• Greenhouse, Nursery, and Floriculture Production: Including farm supervisors and harvesting labourers.
• Animal Production: Such as specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

If you meet the criteria, follow these steps:

1. Review the Application Guide: Visit the IRCC website to download the official guide with instructions and forms.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather necessary documents like proof of work experience, education, and language proficiency.
3. Submit Your Application: Apply online if you qualify for electronic submission, or use the alternate format if needed.
4. Track Your Application: Monitor the status of your application on the IRCC portal.

Conclusion

With the reduced application cap and the program’s final year, now is the time to act. Be sure to double-check eligibility, prepare your documents carefully, and submit your application soon to maximize your chances of success.

The Canada Agri-Food Pilot has been a vital pathway for agri-food workers to achieve permanent residency, so don’t miss out on this limited opportunity!

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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