Who the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) is for
#- Seasonal agricultural workers from participating countries
- Workers with employer job offers under SAWP
- Applicants who can meet admissibility requirements
- Best for: seasonal farm roles tied to SAWP-participating countries.
Eligibility nuances
#Eligibility depends on your country of citizenship and the job offer.
Seasonal timing and employer requirements are strict.
When to choose this vs. agricultural stream: use SAWP for participating countries and seasonal farm roles.
Common pitfall: applying with a country or employer not approved for SAWP.
Typical evidence checklist: LMIA approval, seasonal job offer, and proof of citizenship.
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 SAWP
- Job offer with seasonal agricultural work details
- Proof of eligibility for the participating country
- Admissibility checks including biometrics and medical exams
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- LMIA decision and job offer details
- Employment contract and seasonal dates
- Passport and identity documents
- Admissibility documentation
Comparing options? Review Agricultural Stream (TFWP) and Employer-Specific Work Permit before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Employer obtains a SAWP LMIA and job offer.
- Submit the work permit application with the LMIA.
- Complete biometrics and medicals if required.
- Receive the permit and prepare for travel.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Agricultural Stream (TFWP) 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 is seasonal and depends on employer intake and country schedules.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Applying without a valid SAWP job offer
- Missing seasonal contract details
- Using a non-participating country as the basis for eligibility
Common misconceptions
#- Any agricultural job qualifies for SAWP.
- SAWP is a direct path to PR.
- You can change employers without a new permit.
- Not a fit if your country is not part of the SAWP list.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Is SAWP available to all countries?
No. SAWP is limited to participating countries and specific seasonal jobs.
Can I stay in Canada after the season?
SAWP permits are time-limited and tied to the seasonal job offer.
Do I apply directly without an employer?
No. SAWP requires an employer-driven LMIA and job offer before you can apply.
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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