Who the Agricultural Stream (TFWP) is for
#- Workers in eligible agricultural occupations
- Employers hiring under the agricultural stream
- Applicants who can meet work permit requirements
- Best for: agricultural jobs not covered by SAWP.
Eligibility nuances
#Eligibility depends on the occupation and employer meeting TFWP rules.
Applicants must meet admissibility requirements.
When to choose this vs. SAWP: use the agricultural stream when SAWP does not apply to your country or role.
Common pitfall: using the agricultural stream when SAWP is required.
Typical evidence checklist: LMIA approval, job offer, and proof of experience.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Positive LMIA under the agricultural stream
- Job offer with agricultural occupation details
- Proof of qualifications or experience
- Admissibility checks including biometrics and medical exams
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- LMIA decision and job offer details
- Employment contract and wage information
- Proof of experience or training
- Identity documents and admissibility records
Comparing options? Review Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and Employer-Specific Work Permit before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Employer applies for an agricultural stream LMIA.
- Submit the work permit application with LMIA and job offer.
- Complete biometrics and medicals if required.
- Receive the permit decision and prepare for entry.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and Employer-Specific Work Permit before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times vary by country and employer intake levels.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Using the wrong program when SAWP applies
- Applying before the LMIA is approved
- Missing proof of experience
Common misconceptions
#- The agricultural stream is the same as SAWP.
- LMIA approval guarantees a work permit.
- All farm jobs qualify for this stream.
- Not a fit if SAWP applies to your country and role.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
When should an employer use SAWP instead?
SAWP applies to specific countries and seasonal roles; the agricultural stream covers other cases.
Do I need a job offer?
Yes. A qualifying job offer and LMIA are required.
Can the agricultural stream be seasonal?
Some jobs are seasonal, but eligibility depends on the employer’s LMIA and program rules.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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