Employer-Specific Work Permit for Agricultural Workers in Canada

Canada’s agricultural industry relies heavily on foreign workers to fill labour shortages in farming, livestock, and food production. Many foreign nationals come to Canada as agricultural workers under the Employer-Specific Work Permit program, which ties them to one employer and occupation.

What is an Employer-Specific Work Permit for Agricultural Workers?

An Employer-Specific Work Permit allows a foreign worker to work only for the employer named on the permit, in the position approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Unlike open work permits, this type of permit does not allow job flexibility, but it provides a secure legal pathway for foreign nationals to work in Canada’s agricultural sector.

Key Programs for Agricultural Workers

Foreign workers are often hired through specific streams such as:

• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) – Available to workers from partner countries (such as Mexico and several Caribbean nations).
• Agricultural Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) – For employers hiring workers in primary agriculture who are not covered under SAWP.

Both require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to show that Canadian citizens or permanent residents are not available to do the work.

Employer Requirements

To hire agricultural workers, Canadian employers must:

• Obtain a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
• Provide free housing or affordable accommodation that meets health standards.
• Pay for round-trip transportation from the worker’s home country.
• Offer wages that meet or exceed the provincial or federal wage standards.
• Provide access to health insurance coverage.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Applying for an employer-specific work permit involves detailed paperwork and strict employer compliance. Our law firm helps both employers and workers navigate the LMIA process, submit complete work permit applications, and ensure compliance with immigration and labour regulations.