Canada’s agricultural sector depends on farming, which also employs a lot of people. Canada’s farms grow a lot of different crops, like fruits and veggies, wheat, barley, soybeans, and canola. Due to this, there are jobs in agriculture all year, and many farms will support visas for foreign workers. If you’re interested in farm work, then you may be excited to know that a lot of visa sponsorship jobs are available for immigrants. In this article, we will be showing all you need to know about farm work jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship.
About Farm Work in Canada
In Canada, farm work includes a wide range of jobs in different areas of agriculture, such as growing crops, taking care of animals, and gardening. Immigrants who want to work on farms can expect a mix of physical labour, operating machines, and outdoor work, often during different seasons. Some of their duties could be to plant, harvest, water, feed, and care for animals, run farm tools, and keep the farm’s infrastructure in good shape. Workers may be exposed to different amounts of physical stress and weather conditions depending on the job and where they work. Canada has a lot of different climates and farming methods, so there are chances all year long. However, many jobs are seasonal, especially during harvest times.
Benefits of Farm Worker Jobs in Canada
1. Hands-on Experience
Working on a farm offers valuable hands-on experience in agriculture, which can be useful for those interested in pursuing a career in farming or related fields. Immigrants can learn real skills in crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and equipment operation, improving their employability in the agricultural sector.
2. Seasonal Employment Opportunities
Many farm jobs in Canada are seasonal, allowing immigrants to supplement their income during peak harvesting times. This flexibility can be advantageous for those seeking temporary work arrangements or extra income streams while adjusting to life in a new country.
- Cultural Exchange
Farm work often involves interaction with diverse communities of farmers, coworkers, and customers, providing immigrants with chances for cultural exchange and integration. Working alongside Canadians and other immigrants fosters cross-cultural understanding and helps newcomers feel connected to their new surroundings.
- Outdoor Lifestyle
Farm work in Canada usually involves spending time outdoors, surrounded by nature and fresh air. This part of the job can be appealing for those who enjoy outdoor activities and prefer a dynamic work environment over a desk-bound office job.
5. Contribution to Food Security
By participating in farm work, immigrants contribute to Canada’s food security by helping create a wide variety of agricultural products. This feeling of contributing to a fundamental aspect of society can be fulfilling and meaningful for individuals wanting purposeful employment. Additionally, farm work often fosters a greater appreciation for the food production process and promotes sustainable living practices.
Farm Work and Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship is a system in which companies sponsor foreign workers seeking employment in Canada. The business must provide documents that they were unable to recruit a suitable Canadian worker to fill the role. Visa sponsorship assists foreign workers in obtaining a work permit, allowing them to work temporarily in Canada. Foreign workers can find farm jobs in Canada and take advantage of a variety of visa sponsorship options. The federal government of Canada has a temporary foreign worker program that allows firms to sponsor foreign workers for a wide range of jobs. Many farms also provide visa sponsorship schemes to foreign workers interested in working on their crops.
Farm Worker Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
- Fruit Farm Worker
Protolight Farms Inc., based in Leamington, ON, offers employment for fruit farm workers. Applicants are normally required to have a secondary (high) school graduation certificate. As a fruit farm worker, your responsibilities will revolve around the production and harvesting of fruits. This involves tasks such as picking row and orchard crops, checking products for quality, and preparing fruits for market. Depending on the farm’s operations, you may also be involved in managing and maintaining farm machinery and equipment to aid these processes.
2. Dairy Farm Worker
Heidi Farms Inc. in Bainsville, ON, is one of the companies employing dairy farm labourers. Unlike some other professions, this job doesn’t require a degree, certificate, or license, making it available to a wider range of people. Dairy farm personnel are vital for the proper functioning of the farm, as they are responsible for the day-to-day care of the livestock. This involves activities such as running and repairing farm machinery and equipment and monitoring the cleanliness of stables, barns, barnyards, and pens.
3. Grain Farm Worker
- Pearson Farms Ltd., based in Kelvington, SK, is hiring grain farm labourers. A secondary (high) school graduation certificate is often necessary for this profession. Grain farm workers play a significant part in the development and management of crops. This requires operating and repairing farm machinery and equipment, planting, cultivating, and irrigating crops, and occasionally lifting large loads of up to 45 kg (100 lbs) as part of the job requirements.
4. Farm Worker, Fruit
Berkvens Enterprises Ltd in Port Lambton, ON, offers jobs for fruit farm labourers. Similar to other fruit farm occupations, no degree, or certificate is normally necessary. As a fruit farm worker, your main activities include picking row and orchard crops, evaluating produce for quality, and preparing fruits for market. This profession provides important hands-on experience in fruit cultivation and harvesting.
5. Farm Worker, Vegetables
Bluesky Hydroponics Inc. in Wheatley, ON, is employing farm workers for vegetable cultivation. Like many other agricultural worker occupations, this employment doesn’t require a degree, certificate, or accreditation. As a vegetable farm worker, you’ll be involved in running and repairing farm machinery and equipment, cultivating and irrigating crops, and handling other tasks linked to vegetable farming. This may require lifting loads of up to 23 kg (50 lbs) as part of your responsibilities.
- General Labourer Potato Storage
McCain Foods (Canada) at Florenceville-Bristol, NB, offers opportunities for general labourers in potato storages. While this profession requires a Grade 12 education or GED, it doesn’t necessitate specialist qualifications or degrees. General labourers in potato storage play a critical role in guaranteeing the proper running of the storage facilities. Responsibilities may include directing farm trucks for unloading, observing all safety regulations, and sticking to protocols for food safety. This role allows temporary, part-time employment.
7. General Farm Worker – Harvesting
Roy Pope & Sons Ltd. in Belleisle Creek, NB, is hiring general farm workers for harvesting tasks. No degree, certificate, or qualification is normally necessary for this profession. General farm labourers in harvesting are responsible for many tasks involved in the harvest season. This includes planting, cultivating, and irrigating crops, as well as sorting and packing fruits and vegetables. The employment often requires working 40 to 50 hours per week, adding to the farm’s productivity during peak seasons.
Tips on How to Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
- Research Visa Options
Begin your journey by thoroughly researching the different visa options available for temporary agricultural work in Canada. The two main programs to focus on are the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). These programs facilitate the hiring of foreign workers by Canadian employers when qualified Canadians or permanent residents are not available to fill agricultural jobs. It’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, application method, and any specific requirements for each program. Consider factors such as the duration of the job, whether it’s seasonal or year-round, and the location of the farm, as these can affect your visa choices.
2. Identify Eligible Employers
Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the visa programs, the next step is to find eligible employers who are authorized to hire foreign workers under the TFWP or SAWP. These employers must receive a positive Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or be exempt from the LMIA requirement. To streamline your search, review the list of eligible employers given by the Canadian government and perform thorough research on their reputation, location, and job offerings. Consider reaching out to these employers personally to inquire about available positions and express your interest in working for them.
3. Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary papers for your visa application, ensuring that everything is in order before proceeding further. You’ll need a valid passport, a job offer or contract from a qualified employer, proof of qualifications or relevant experience (such as certifications or training), and any other papers needed by the Canadian government or the specific visa program. If any of your papers require translation, ensure they are translated into English or French as per the requirements.
4. Apply for the Job
With your documents prepared, it’s time to start applying for farm work jobs that align with your skills and experience. Explore job postings on various platforms, including online job boards, business websites, and government job portals. Tailor your resume or application to highlight your relevant experience in agriculture, farming, or related areas. Clearly articulate your skills, abilities, and desire to work in Canada. Be proactive in reaching out to potential employers, and don’t hesitate to follow up on your applications to show your interest and commitment.
5. Attend Interviews
If your application captures the attention of possible employers, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare thoroughly for these interviews by researching the employer, knowing the job requirements, and practising common interview questions. Highlight your previous work experience, applicable skills, and why you’re interested in working on their farm. Show your enthusiasm, reliability, and adaptability to the agricultural work environment, as these traits are highly valued by employers in the field.
6. Receive Job Offer
Upon successfully navigating the interview process, you may receive a job offer from an eligible company. Take the time to carefully review the terms and conditions mentioned in the employment contract. Pay close attention to details such as wages, working hours, accommodation arrangements (if given), and any additional benefits. Ensure that the job offer meets the requirements of the visa program you’re applying for, including the length of employment and the specific tasks involved.
7. Apply for Work Visa
Once you have a confirmed job offer from a qualified employer, you can proceed to apply for a work visa or permit through the Canadian immigration authorities, specifically Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Follow the instructions given for your specific visa program and pay the required application fees. Complete the visa application form accurately and send all necessary supporting documents, including your job offer letter, proof of identity, and any medical examination results if needed.
8. Wait for Processing
After submitting your visa application, it’s time to practice patience and wait for it to be processed by IRCC. Processing times may vary based on factors such as the volume of applications and your country of residence. Monitor the status of your application online through the IRCC portal and be prepared to respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documents. It’s important to stay informed and proactive throughout the process to ensure a smooth application experience.
9. Travel to Canada
Upon approval of your visa application, make the appropriate arrangements to travel to Canada according to the dates specified on your visa. Book your travel tickets, plan for accommodation (if necessary), and ensure that you have all necessary travel papers, including your passport and visa approval letter. Familiarize yourself with any COVID-19 travel restrictions or quarantine requirements that may be in place at the time of your trip to ensure a seamless journey.
10. Begin Work
Once you arrive in Canada, report to your employer as planned and start your farm work duties. Attend any orientation sessions or training programs offered by the employer and take the time to familiarize yourself with workplace policies and procedures.
Conclusion
Working in a farm worker role in Canada is exciting but can be a challenging job. Expect tasks like planting, harvesting, caring for livestock, and maintaining farm infrastructure, frequently in seasonal conditions. The good thing is that many agricultural companies offer visa sponsorship and all you need to know about this has been covered in this article.