The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot (AFIP) was created to help experienced agri-food workers in Canada secure permanent residence (PR). Although the pilot officially closed on May 14, 2025, IRCC continues processing applications submitted before this date.
If you are looking for guidance on AFIP or alternative immigration pathways, Scope Immigration Services, a licensed immigration consultant firm, can help you evaluate your eligibility, submit applications, and plan the next steps.
What was AFIP?
The AFIP addressed labour shortages in the Canadian agri-food sector. It allowed workers in specific industries and occupations to apply for permanent residence.
To apply for permanent residence under the Agri-Food Pilot, applicants must meet specific requirements. These include having relevant work experience in eligible industries and occupations, meeting language proficiency standards, and demonstrating the ability to settle in Canada.
Applicants must have at least 12 months (1,560 hours) of full-time, non-seasonal Canadian work in an eligible occupation under the pilot.
A full-time, permanent job offer from an employer in an eligible agri-food industry is mandatory.
Applicants need CLB 4 or higher in English or French in all language skills. A Canadian high school diploma or equivalent is required. Foreign education must be evaluated via an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
Applicants must show sufficient funds to support themselves and their family unless already employed in Canada. Residency conditions differ for applicants inside versus outside Canada.
AFIP focused on these sectors:
NAICS 3116: Butchers, meat cutters, and processing laborers
NAICS 1114: Harvesters, livestock machinery operators
NAICS 1121-1124, 1129: Cattle, hog, poultry, sheep, and goat farming
Eligible NOC Codes: 63201, 65202, 94141, 82030, 84120, 85100, 95106, 85101
Additionally, applicants must ensure their occupation matches IRCC-approved NOC codes to avoid processing delays.
Step 1: Prepare Application Documents
Work references, job offer letters, and proof of settlement funds are required
Ensure documents are accurate and complete
Step 2: Submit Online
Applications were submitted via IRCC’s online PR portal
Applicants could track status and respond to requests
Step 3: Biometrics & Medicals
IRCC requested biometrics and medical exams as part of the application
Step 4: Receive Decision
Applicants received PR approval or additional requests from IRCC
Scope Immigration Services can review your submission, verify documentation, and represent you in the IRCC portal to improve your application success.
Impact of AFIP
Over 4,500 agri-food workers and their families have become PRs since 2020
Approximately 1,775 applicants received PR in 2024 alone
Alternatives After Closure
Express Entry: Skilled worker pathways with provincial support
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many provinces now offer agri-food streams
New Agriculture/Fish Processing Streams (2025): IRCC announced successor pathways
However, navigating these options can be challenging. Scope Immigration Services, a licensed RCIC firm, ensures you choose the most suitable and fastest pathway.
At Scope Immigration Services, we specialize in:
Reviewing AFIP applications and advising on pending cases
Providing guidance on Express Entry, PNP, and successor agri-food streams
Representing you in the IRCC portal (IMM 5476)
Offering personalized immigration strategies to secure PR efficiently
Additionally, we help families understand settlement options and long-term planning in Canada.
Ready to secure your Canadian PR?
Contact Scope Immigration Services RCIC Canada today to:
Book your consultation now and take the first step toward your Canadian immigration journey.