Agriculture and agri-food sector category-based draws target candidates with work experience in farming, food processing, and related agri-food occupations. Introduced in May 2023, this category reflects the federal government’s recognition that Canada’s food system depends on stable permanent resident pipelines for workers in agriculture and food manufacturing — roles that are chronically understaffed and where temporary foreign worker programs alone are insufficient to address long-term labour needs.

Unlike the separate Agri-Food Pilot (which is a non-Express Entry pathway administered by designated employers), the agriculture category draw operates entirely within Express Entry and is accessible to candidates who qualify under FSW, CEC, or FST with an agricultural or agri-food NOC as their primary work experience.

Eligibility Requirements

• Active Express Entry profile under CEC, FSW, or FST
• Primary work experience in agriculture or agri-food sector NOC
• Eligible occupations include farm supervisors, specialized livestock workers, butchers, food processing workers
• Category draw issues ITAs to agriculture candidates at lower CRS thresholds
• Supports Canada’s food security and agri-food sector workforce needs
• Separate from and complements the Agri-Food Pilot (non-EE)

Eligible Occupations and Eligibility

IRCC’s agriculture category typically includes farm supervisors and specialized livestock workers (NOC 82010), butchers (NOC 94142), fish and seafood plant workers (NOC 94143), food and beverage processing workers (NOC 94141), and poultry processing workers (NOC 94144). The exact NOC list is confirmed by IRCC in each draw notice. Use the NOC Finder to identify and verify your occupational code.

To qualify, candidates must have an active Express Entry profile under FSW, CEC, or FST, with the qualifying agriculture or agri-food NOC as their primary occupation. For FSW-eligible candidates, agricultural work experience from outside Canada counts. For CEC-eligible candidates, the experience must be Canadian and within the past three years.

CRS cut-offs for agriculture draws have ranged from approximately 430 to 455 in 2023–2024 — lower than general draws, and consistent with IRCC’s intent to provide a realistic PR pathway for agricultural workers who may have limited formal education and moderate CRS scores.

Fees, Processing and Documents

Fees are $1,525 for the principal applicant (including $575 RPRF), $1,525 for a spouse, and $260 per dependent child; biometrics $85/$170. Processing is approximately 6 months post-ITA.

• Active Express Entry profile with correct agri-food NOC
• Employment reference letters from farm or food processing employer (role, duties, hours, salary)
• Language test results
• Educational credentials or ECA
• Police clearances and medical examination

Book a paid consultation for an agriculture-specific Express Entry strategy with Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308.

Fees & Costs

Fee Component	Amount (CAD)
Government Fee	$1,525 principal applicant (incl. RPRF); $1,525 spouse; $260 per dependent child
Biometrics	$85 individual / $170 family

Fees current as of 2026. IRCC may update fees periodically — confirm on the official source link below before paying.

Key Documents Required

• Active Express Entry profile with agriculture NOC
• Employment reference letters (farm/food processing)
• Language test results
• Educational credentials or ECA
• Police clearances
• Medical examination

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the agriculture category draw and the Agri-Food Pilot?

The agriculture category draw is part of Express Entry — candidates apply through the standard Express Entry pool and receive ITAs through category draws. The Agri-Food Pilot is a separate IRCC program administered through designated employers in specific provinces and occupations; it has its own eligibility criteria and is not linked to Express Entry. Some candidates may be eligible for both pathways simultaneously. VGIS can assess which is more suitable for your profile.

My agricultural experience is outside Canada — can I still qualify for agriculture draws?

Yes, if you are eligible under the Federal Skilled Worker Program. FSW counts foreign work experience in qualifying NOC occupations. You must also meet FSW’s language requirement (CLB 7 minimum), education criteria, and score at least 67 on the FSW points grid. Agricultural occupations in TEER 2 or 3 qualify for FSW if all other criteria are met.

What CRS score do agriculture draws typically clear at?

Agriculture and agri-food category draws in 2023–2024 cleared CRS scores in the 430–455 range. These are among the lowest thresholds of any Express Entry draw type, reflecting the policy priority to recruit workers in this sector. Monitoring IRCC’s published draw history is the best way to track current cut-offs.

Official Government Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/submit-profile/rounds-invitations/category-based-selection.html

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Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and IRCC policies change frequently. For advice specific to your case, please book a paid consultation with our licensed RCIC-IRB. VG Immigration Services Inc. — Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308.