New Canada Visa Stream for Agri and Fish Workers

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 30, 2025Policy & Government Announcementsagriculture sector, Canadian immigration, foreign workers, visa sponsorship, work permits

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is excited to announce plans for a new foreign worker stream aimed at addressing labour shortages in the agriculture and fish processing sectors. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Canada’s workforce and support economic growth.

What’s in the Works?

As part of the 2025-2026 Department Plan, the IRCC is collaborating with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to create this new stream. It will specifically cater to foreign workers wishing to fill crucial roles in agriculture and fish processing. There will also be a dedicated work permit associated with this stream, making it easier for applicants from select partner countries to find employment in these fields.

This initiative reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to managing temporary resident levels effectively while addressing pressing labour needs.

Understanding Labour Shortages

The agriculture sector is vital for Canada’s economy, but it faces a persistent shortage of workers. Occupations in agriculture and agri-food are currently highlighted in Canada’s Express Entry selection process. Express Entry is a popular immigration pathway that allows skilled workers to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

This new stream for agricultural jobs is also a response to the closure of the Agri-Food Pilot pathway, which was designed to assist foreign workers in specific agricultural roles to gain permanent residency (PR). Unfortunately, the pilot, which served numerous worthy candidates since its launch in 2020, officially closed earlier this year after reaching its application cap.

What This Means for Job Seekers

If you’re considering a move to Canada and have experience in these sectors, this new opportunity could be your ticket to success. The creation of this stream may open doors that were previously closed, potentially leading to both work permits and pathways to permanent residency.

As the IRCC takes steps to finalize this stream, public consultations will provide a platform for feedback from interested stakeholders, including potential applicants. This approach ensures that the program meets the needs of both businesses and job seekers alike.

In summary, if you are exploring visa sponsorship or permanent residency opportunities in Canada, keep an eye on this new agricultural worker initiative. It could be an excellent chance for international job seekers to contribute to a vital sector while building a new life in Canada.