For recent Express Entry lotteries, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has devised category-based selection criteria. One of the categories includes occupations in agriculture and agri-food such as contractors, farm supervisors, and butchers. The selection criteria were developed in conjunction with IRCC partners and stakeholders, as well as conversations with provincial and territorial governments
Following changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act made by the Government of Canada, the introduction of category-based selection draws has been planned in June 2022, and began in June 2023. These improvements have enabled the selection of immigrants based on specific characteristics that match with Canada’s economic aims, such as appropriate work experience to solve labor market shortages and French language ability.
Canada Agriculture NOC Codes and Occupations for Express Entry Category-Based Selection
There are 3 occupations in the agriculture and agri-food occupation category. These include:
| Occupation | NOC Code |
| Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services | 82031 |
| Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors | 82030 |
| Butchers- retail and wholesale | 63201 |
Eligibility Requirements for the Agriculture Occupations Category
You must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Meet the requirements for one of the Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program).
- Have at least 6 months of continuous work experience in one of the mentioned occupations in the last three years.
- Complete all of the additional requirements outlined in the round’s instructions.
Why Was Agriculture and Agri-Food Chosen as a Category for Express Entry Occupations?
IRCC held discussions to determine immigration selection priorities and categories, obtaining opinions and proposals from a diverse variety of stakeholders and the general public. IRCC also met with provincial and territorial officials to learn more about their potential priorities and requirements.
Agriculture professions were identified as one of the five categories with the greatest need by respondents.
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting had a job vacancy rate of 10,535 (or 3.9%) at the end of 2022. The following provinces had job openings:
- Ontario: 3,070
- Quebec: 1,950
- British Columbia: 2,475
- Alberta: 940
- Saskatchewan: 540
- Manitoba: 550
- New Brunswick: 720
- Nova Scotia: 425
- PEI: 130
Are You Interested In Applying to the Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations Express Entry Stream?
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