Canada: Extension of the Agri-Food Pilot Program

Key Points  

• Canada extended the duration of the Agri-Food Pilot program until 14 May 2025 and lifted several requirements under the program 

Overview  

The Canadian government extended the Agri-Food Pilot program until 14 May 2025. Through this program, experienced workers in the agriculture and food industries can gain permanent residency in Canada.  

The government also removed the annual occupational cap and limits for the number of applications accepted for specific occupations under the pilot program. The government also intends to introduce the following changes by the end of 2023: 

• Expand open work permit access to family members of all participants in the Agri-Food Pilot, regardless of the participant’s job skill level. 
• Allow unions to attest to a candidate’s work experience as an alternative to an employer reference letters. 
• Give applicants residing in Canada the option to either meet the job offer requirement, including the median wage requirement for the job offer or the education requirement, including educational credential assessment verification. 
• Accept work experience gained under an open work permit for vulnerable workers, giving more workers an opportunity to qualify. 

What are the Changes? 

The government of Canada extended the duration of the Agri-Food Pilot program until 14 May 2025 and lifted several requirements under the program. According to the government, removing these limits will expand the number of applicants accepted under the program. 

Looking Ahead  

Continue to check the government of Canada’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.