Temporary Foreign Worker Program — Agriculture

Labour shortages are a persistent challenge for Canadian farms, nurseries, and greenhouses, especially during peak production seasons. When local hiring efforts don’t fill all the roles needed to keep operations running, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program — Agriculture offers a practical way to bring in experienced workers on a temporary basis to support primary agricultural activities across the country.

Administered by Employment and Social Development Canada, this national program allows agricultural employers to hire foreign workers for on-farm roles tied directly to food and plant production. The program covers a range of agricultural work, from crop planting and harvesting to animal care and equipment operation, and is structured through several streams to reflect different types of agricultural needs. Some streams are designed specifically for seasonal production, while others support farms with year-round or specialized labour requirements. Rather than providing direct cash payments, the program offers non-repayable support by giving businesses access to an international labour pool when domestic recruitment isn’t sufficient.

For small and mid-sized farms as well as larger agricultural enterprises, this program can be a key part of maintaining productivity, meeting market demand, and planning for future growth. Applications are ongoing, and requirements vary depending on the stream and type of role. Business owners considering this option may want to look closely at how the program aligns with their operational needs before moving forward.