Migration Overseas
Since 1998
The Agri-Food Pilot was a pilot program that ran from May 15, 2020 to May 14, 2025. It was designed to address labour needs in the Canadian agri-food sector and provided a pathway to permanent residence for experienced, non-seasonal workers in specific industries and occupations. The pilot is now closed, and the sections below are kept as a historical reference.
The pilot targeted workers in the following industries (NAICS codes):
| NAICS | Industry |
|---|---|
| 1114 | Greenhouse, nursery and floriculture production |
| 1112 | Vegetable and melon farming |
| 1113 | Fruit and tree nut farming |
| 1121 | Cattle ranching and farming |
| 1122 | Hog and pig farming |
| 1123 | Poultry and egg production |
| 3116 | Meat product manufacturing |
Workers must have been employed in one of the following occupations:
| NOC | Occupation |
|---|---|
| 82030 | Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors |
| 84120 | Specialized livestock workers |
| 85100 | Livestock labourers |
| 85101 | Harvesting labourers |
| 85103 | Nursery and greenhouse labourers |
| 94141 | Industrial butchers and meat cutters (3116 only) |
| 94140 | Process control operators - food (3116 only) |
| 95106 | Labourers in food processing (3116 only) |
These were the requirements while the pilot was open. They do not allow a new application today.
12 months full-time, non-seasonal Canadian work experience in eligible industry within 36 months.
Full-time, non-seasonal, permanent job offer in eligible industry/occupation.
CLB/NCLC 4 in English or French (all 4 abilities).
Canadian high school diploma OR equivalent foreign credential with ECA.
Proof of sufficient funds (unless already working in Canada).
Must intend to live outside the province of Quebec.
IRCC has not announced a permanent replacement for the pilot. Its 2026-27 Departmental Plan refers to creating a new foreign labour stream for agriculture and fish processing. As of November 6, 2026, no launch date or eligibility rules have been published, and it is not confirmed that the stream will lead to permanent residence.
For people who had already applied under the pilot, two IRCC measures are relevant:
If you're an agri-food worker, consider:
Even with the Agri-Food Pilot closed, there are other immigration options. Our experts can assess your eligibility for alternative programs.
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