The Agri-Food Pilot, one of Canada’s key immigration pathways for workers in agriculture and food processing, has officially closed. As of February 13, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has reached the program’s cap, and no new applications will be accepted.

This leaves many agri-food workers wondering what their next steps should be if they were planning to apply for permanent residence (PR) through this program.

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Applications Submitted Before February 13, 2025

Foreign nationals who successfully submitted their applications before February 13, 2025, will continue to have their files processed. IRCC has not announced any changes or delays to these applications, meaning applicants who met the deadline should not be concerned.

However, for those who did not apply in time, it is essential to consider alternative immigration pathways.

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Alternative PR Pathways for Agri-Food Workers

Although the Agri-Food Pilot is no longer an option, there are still several pathways to PR for foreign workers in the agriculture and food processing sectors.

1. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many provinces across Canada operate PNP streams that allow foreign workers to apply for permanent residence if they have experience in agriculture or food processing. Some examples include:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) – Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream
  
  • This stream includes agricultural occupations and allows workers with a valid job offer in Ontario to apply for PR.
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) – Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot
  
  • Designed for workers in occupations facing labor shortages, including certain roles in agriculture and food processing.
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) – Rural Renewal Stream
  
  • Prioritizes workers in key industries, including agriculture, and helps connect them with rural employers.

2. Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)

The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a new employer-driven PR pathway for workers who receive job offers from designated employers in specific rural communities.

IRCC has announced 14 participating communities, and while details are still emerging, this could be a viable option for agri-food workers who secure employment in one of these regions.

3. Express Entry – Agriculture Category

For skilled workers, Express Entry remains a strong option. While the Agri-Food Pilot is closed, IRCC has agriculture-specific category-based draws under Express Entry.

However, as of 2025, the only eligible occupation for these draws is Butchers (NOC 63201).

For other agri-food workers, Express Entry is still possible, but applicants will need a competitive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score or French language proficiency to increase their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

4. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

For those considering Canada’s Atlantic provinces, the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an employer-driven pathway to PR.

To qualify, a candidate must:

• Have a job offer from a designated employer in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island.
• Meet the work experience, education, and language requirements for the program.

Each province has its own process for designating employers, and workers can check provincial websites for updated lists of designated companies hiring through AIP.

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Will the Agri-Food Pilot Be Replaced?

At this time, IRCC has not announced any plans to replace the Agri-Food Pilot with a similar program. While some pilot programs evolve into permanent immigration streams, there has been no indication that a new pathway will be introduced for agricultural workers.

Given the high demand for PR among agri-food workers, applicants should explore alternative pathways as soon as possible to avoid missing opportunities.

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Need Guidance?

For personalized assistance with your PR application, contact our immigration experts. We can help assess your eligibility for PNPs, Express Entry, AIP, and other programs to find the best immigration solution for you.

Stay informed by following our updates on immigration news and policy changes.

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Why Choose Us?

At Le Immigration Group, we specialize in guiding individuals through the immigration process with expertise and care.

Our experienced consultants provide personalized assistance, ensuring that your application is accurate, complete, and optimized for success.

With our commitment to excellence, we make your immigration journey smooth and stress-free, helping you achieve your dream of immigrating to Canada.

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Remember that while these answers provide general guidance, every case is unique. Consulting official immigration resources and guidelines specific to your situation is recommended. And for that purpose, we are here!

Reach out to us and book a consultation to discuss your specific needs and concerns. Our experienced consultants are here to provide personalized assistance, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and optimized for success.

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