How to Hire Foreign Agricultural Workers
Foreign agricultural workers are filling an increasingly larger role in Canada's agricultural industry, especially during peak production periods when local labour supplies are limited. Foreign agricultural workers can play a key role in helping you meet your labour needs.
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) Background
The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) allows foreign workers to enter Canada and fulfil a variety of agricultural labour occupations. SAWP was developed in partnership with members of Canada's agricultural industry, Mexico and several Caribbean countries that are also members of the Commonwealth. The program is currently in effect in the following provinces:
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
- Ontario
- Quebec
- New Brunswick
- Nova Scotia
- Prince Edward Island
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) Guidelines
If you would like to apply to hire a foreign agricultural worker under the SAWP, be prepared to do the following:
- Demonstrate your efforts to hire Canadian nationals and permanent residents
- Pay foreign agricultural workers the same wages as Canadian workers
- Pay for the foreign agricultural workers' transportation to and from Canada
- Provide free, appropriate seasonal housing
- Pay immigration visa fees
- Ensure the foreign agricultural worker is covered under workers compensation as well as a private or public medical services plan
- Sign a contract outlining the foreign agricultural worker's salary, benefits, duties and so forth
If you would like to learn more about how to hire a foreign agricultural worker in Canada, please visit HRSDC's official web site.
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