The Agriculture Stream in Canada provides an avenue for employers to engage temporary foreign workers in agricultural activities, such as farm work and fruit picking when local Canadians are unavailable for these positions.
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| Canada 2024 Agriculture Stream for Temporary Foreign Workers |
To qualify, foreign workers must possess a valid job offer from a Canadian employer and apply for a corresponding work permit. Temporary foreign workers (TFW) are allowed to work in the country for a limited period.
Under the "Agriculture Stream" applicants from any country can seek employment opportunities. Unlike many other job sectors, agricultural jobs in Canada typically do not demand high qualifications; individuals with primary or secondary education are eligible to apply. Upon receiving a job offer from a Canadian employer, the next step is to apply for the necessary work permit.
Numerous employers in Canada actively participate in hiring workers through the Agriculture Stream, making it accessible to both international and Canadian citizens. Further details regarding this program are outlined below.
Hiring a Temporary Foreign Worker Through Agriculture Stream
- Job Country: Canada
- Program Name: Temporary Foreign Agricultural Worker Program
- Eligibility: Temporary Foreign Worker from any country
- LMIA: Positive LMIA Approval Required
- Visa Type: Agriculture Worker
What is the Agricultural Stream?
The Agricultural Stream constitutes a segment within the "Temporary Foreign Agricultural Program," enabling Canadian employers to enlist foreign workers from any country when local Canadians are unavailable.
This stream serves as a mechanism for Canadian employers to fill temporary agricultural positions with foreign workers, contributing significantly to the vibrancy of the Canadian agricultural sector.
Financial Benefits Offered by Canadian Employers/Companies
As per the stipulations of the Agricultural Stream, employers engaging foreign workers through this program are responsible for covering various costs on behalf of the employees:
- Transportation: Employers are obligated to arrange and bear the costs of round-trip transportation for the Temporary Foreign Workers (TFW). This encompasses travel to and from their workplace in Canada and their country of residence.
- Housing: Employers must ensure that TFW have access to suitable, adequate, and affordable housing during their employment.
- Health Insurance: The provision of health insurance is also a responsibility shouldered by employers, ensuring the well-being of foreign workers.
Qualifying Occupations for the Agriculture Stream
The Agriculture Stream encompasses various eligible occupations, each represented by a unique five-digit code:
- 80020: Managers in Agriculture
- 80021: Managers in Horticulture
- 82030: Agriculture and Farm Supervisors
- 82031: Ground Maintenance
- 84120: Machinery Operators
- 85100: Livestock Labourers (referred to as Farm Workers)
- 85101: Harvesting (Vegetables, Fruit Picker)
- 85103: Nursery
Duration of Stay
Under the Agriculture Stream, your work permit will be granted for three years.
Visa Costs
When applying for a work permit, the associated fees include:
- Work permit application fee: CAD 150
- Biometrics fee: CAD 85 (if required)
Agriculture Jobs in Canada (LMIA Approved)
Numerous job opportunities are posted daily on the official "Job Bank Canada" website. The application process is straightforward and free of charge. Follow these steps to explore and apply for jobs:
- Visit the website https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/foreign-candidates.
- Click on "Advanced."
- Scroll down the page, and at the end, select the option "Canadians and international candidates."
- Scroll up again and in the job title, enter the code relevant to the Agriculture Stream (e.g., "85100" or any other eligible code mentioned above).
- Press Enter and click on "View Results" to see a list of seasonal jobs in Canada.
- Open any post, read the description, and apply online.
Remember: For those applying for the Agriculture Stream for Temporary Foreign Workers, it's crucial to search for jobs eligible in this stream using the occupation codes provided above on the Job Bank website.
If an employer extends a job offer, they will guide you on the application process for the work permit. The subsequent steps involve mutual agreement and gathering the necessary documents for the online application of the Canada Work Permit.
For those holding a valid Canadian Visitor Visa, there is guidance on how to convert it into a Work Permit.