Agricultural workers (SAWP and the agricultural stream)

Farm workers come through the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) or the agricultural stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. IRCC says SAWP workers “can work for any SAWP employer in Canada”; other agricultural workers get a permit for one named employer.

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Step-by-step checklist

0 of 3 done

1. Employer gets an LMIAWhat to expect: ESDC’s September 2026 times: SAWP about 7 business days, agricultural stream about 22.
2. Apply for the work permitWhat to expect: Follow IRCC’s instructions for agricultural workers.
3. Arrive and workWhat to expect: Your rights are the same as other workers in the province.

Documents you usually need

LMIA letter from the employer
Employment contract
Passport

Government fees

CAD

Work permit	$155
Biometrics (one person)	$85

Fees as listed by IRCC on 2026-10-30. Fees change; always check the official fee list. IRCC fee list ↗

After you apply

Employers must give housing that meets standards and can’t charge you recruitment fees.

Processing times change every week. Check today’s times on IRCC’s official tool. Check processing times ↗

Official sources:

Checked against IRCC pages on 2026-10-30.

General information only. This is not legal advice and does not check whether you are eligible. Your own checklist in your IRCC account is what counts. Last checked 2026-10-30.

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