On June 3, 2024, the Government of Canada unveiled a significant update for the Agri-Food Pilot Program, designed to enhance alignment with other permanent economic pathways. These revisions aim to streamline the immigration process for individuals seeking to contribute to Canada’s vibrant agri-food sector while ensuring newcomers meet essential language proficiency and settlement fund criteria.

Details of the new update for the Agri-Food Pilot Program

1. Language Proficiency: Under the revamped Agri-Food Pilot, language proficiency requirements have been refined to ensure applicants can effectively integrate into Canadian society. As per the updates, candidates must provide an IRCC-approved language test demonstrating a minimum level 4 in the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for all language skills. Notably, test results must be less than two years old at the time of application, emphasizing the importance of a recent language assessment.
2. Settlement Funds: In a bid to ensure successful settlement and integration, adjustments have been made regarding proof of settlement funds. While real property or investments are no longer accepted as proof, applicants residing and working in Canada under a valid work permit are exempt from demonstrating funds. However, other candidates must exhibit sufficient funds for settlement in Canada, which must be available, transferable, unencumbered by debts, and adequate for their initial establishment. The sufficiency of funds is determined based on family size, with a requirement to meet 50% of the current low-income cut-offs for urban areas.
3. Validity Period of Language Test Results: A notable change introduced in the updated Agri-Food Pilot is the commencement of the validity period of language test results from the test report date. This adjustment aims to ensure applicants present recent and relevant language proficiency evidence, enhancing the program’s effectiveness in evaluating candidates’ linguistic capabilities.

Canada’s Agri-Food Pilot Program has undergone significant enhancements, reflecting the government’s commitment to fostering immigration pathways that align with economic priorities. With refined language proficiency requirements, stringent settlement fund criteria, and a renewed focus on the validity period of language test results, the updated program seeks to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the growth and prosperity of the agri-food sector. Prospective applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes to maximize their chances of success in accessing this promising immigration opportunity.

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship stated: 

“Our farmers and food processors depend on the steady arrival of foreign workers so that planting, harvesting, and food processing activities can take place throughout the year, and they need our continued support to attract and retain these talented workers. Extending the Agri-Food Pilot helps these sectors find the employees they need, so we can be confident that our food security, economy, and living standards for Canadians across the country will continue to improve and grow.”
 

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