Crop and Livestock Farm Jobs in Canada For Foreigners

Canada continues to welcome foreign workers for crop and livestock farm laborer jobs, offering legal work visas, steady income, and a chance to experience real Canadian life. With hourly wages between CAD $15 and $20 and monthly earnings reaching CAD $2,500 to $3,200, these jobs are a powerful option for anyone ready to work hard and earn fairly.

Read Also: Agricultural Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

Why Canada Needs Foreign Farm Workers

Canada’s vast landscape supports a massive agricultural industry, one that relies on thousands of seasonal and full-time workers each year to plant, harvest, and care for livestock.

A simple truth drives this demand: there are not enough local workers to fill these physically demanding, essential roles. As a result, Canada’s government facilitates programs that allow farmers to recruit international workers. This is a structured, legal avenue for those seeking stable employment, earnings in Canadian dollars, and a chance to build a future.

What Does a Crop and Livestock Farm Laborer Do?

This is hands-on, outdoor work. It’s demanding but often deeply rewarding, connecting you directly to the land and food production.

Typical duties are split between two main focuses:

For Crop Farm Work:

• Planting, seeding, weeding, and irrigating fields.
• Harvesting fruits, vegetables, or grains by hand or machine.
• Operating and assisting with farm machinery (tractors, harvesters).
• Sorting, cleaning, grading, and packing produce for market.
• General farm maintenance and repairs.

For Livestock Farm Work:

• Feeding and watering animals (cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep).
• Cleaning and sanitizing barns, pens, and stables.
• Assisting with milking dairy herds or collecting eggs.
• Monitoring animal health and reporting concerns.
• Maintaining fences, gates, and feeding equipment.

Many farms are mixed operations, so you may gain experience in both areas. Training is typically provided on the job.

Who Can Apply?

A significant advantage of these roles is their accessibility. Formal degrees or prior farm experience are not required for most entry-level positions. Employers primarily seek reliability and a strong work ethic.

You are likely a good candidate if you:

• Are between 18 and 50 years old (age preferences can vary).
• Are physically fit and capable of manual labor in all weather conditions.
• Have a basic understanding of English or French (helpful for safety and instructions).
• Are willing to work early hours, long days, and weekends during peak seasons.
• Have a clean criminal record and can pass a medical examination.
• Are from a country eligible for Canadian temporary work visas.

Visa Sponsorship – How It Works

Most foreign farm workers enter Canada through one of two key programs:

1. Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP): For workers from participating countries for up to 8 months.
2. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) – Agricultural Stream: For a wider range of nationalities and potentially longer contracts.

The standard process is:

1. A Canadian employer obtains a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), proving the need to hire a foreign worker.
2. You receive a formal job offer and contract.
3. Using these documents, you apply for a closed work permit at a Canadian visa application center in your country.
4. Once approved, you can travel to Canada and begin work legally.

Start early.  Visa processing can take several weeks to months. Applying between October 2024 and February is ideal for the season.

Salary & Benefits of Crop and Livestock Farm Jobs in Canada

While not considered luxury employment, farm labor in Canada offers fair, regulated compensation that allows for meaningful savings.

Estimated Earnings

• Hourly Wage: Typically ranges from CAD $16 to $22 per hour, depending on the province and specific role. Overtime is common during harvest.
• Monthly Take-Home: Approximately CAD $2,400 to $3,500+ after deductions, based on hours worked.
• Contract Length: Usually 6 to 12 months, with high-performing workers often invited back for subsequent seasons.

Common Benefits & Provisions:

• Subsidized or employer-provided housing (often shared).
• Transportation to and from the worksite.
• Medical insurance coverage for the duration of your contract.
• Access to kitchen facilities or meals.

Where Are the Jobs Located?

Opportunities exist across Canada’s agricultural heartlands:

• Ontario & Quebec: Diverse vegetable farms, fruit orchards, and dairy and poultry operations.
• British Columbia: Vineyards, berry farms, and tree fruit orchards.
• Alberta, Saskatchewan & Manitoba: Large-scale grain farms, cattle ranches, and pork production.

You will experience rural or small-town Canada peaceful, community-oriented, and surrounded by nature.

How to Apply for Crop and Livestock Farm Jobs in Canada

1. Prepare Your Documents:
   • A simple, honest CV/Resume. Highlight any physical work experience (construction, warehouse, etc.), reliability, and teamwork.
   • A valid passport.
   • Be ready to provide a police clearance certificate and medical report later in the process.
2. Find Legitimate Job Listings:
   • Search on official Canadian job boards (Job Bank, provincial sites).
   • Look for licensed recruitment agencies in your country that partner with Canadian farms.
   • Use keywords: “farm labourer Canada LMIA” or “SAWP jobs
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Follow the employer’s or agency’s instructions carefully. Some may request a short video.
4. Interview & Selection:
   • If shortlisted, you may have a phone or video interview. Be prepared to discuss your willingness to work hard and adapt.
5. Secure Your Contract & Visa:
   • Upon selection, you will sign a contract. Your employer/agency will then guide you through the work permit application.

Conclusion

Crop and livestock farm laborer jobs in Canada in 2026 are more than temporary work. They offer a legal pathway to earn in Canadian dollars, gain international experience, and build financial stability through visa-sponsored employment. With free or low-cost housing, overtime opportunities, and strong worker protections, these roles remain one of the most accessible ways for foreigners to work in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions