Canada is a very popular destination for foreign workers who enjoy a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, a diverse culture, and a strong economy.
Agriculture is among the major industries contributing to the country’s economy, with a consistent demand for manpower in agri-based sectors such as poultry farming.
For foreign workers, the opportunity to work as a poultry farm worker in Canada with visa sponsorship is an excellent pathway to a new beginning and career advancement in a stable and expanding industry. Poultry farming, a key part of Canada’s agrifood sector, raises staple food crops such as chickens, eggs, and turkeys for domestic consumption and export.
With the industry’s expansion and growing demand for poultry products, the need for trained personnel in poultry farms has increased. Visa sponsorship offers foreign nationals a chance to live and work in Canada, gain valuable experience, and enjoy long-term career benefits.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of poultry farm worker roles in Canada, visa sponsorship for foreign applicants, and the benefits of working in the Canadian agriculture sector.
The Role of a Poultry Farm Worker in Canada
Poultry farm workers perform critical functions in caring for, maintaining, and raising poultry. They engage in daily activities to ensure chickens or other poultry are healthy, well-nourished, and properly maintained. While the nature of work depends on the farm’s size and type, the core responsibilities typically include:
Feeding and Caring for Poultry: Poultry farm workers ensure chickens, turkeys, and other birds are adequately fed and watered, including inspecting and refilling feeding systems.
Poultry Healthcare: Workers monitor the health of birds daily, checking for signs of illness or injury, administering medication or vaccinations, and maintaining a clean, sanitary farm environment to prevent disease.
Egg Collection: Workers on egg-laying farms collect eggs from hens, inspecting them for quality and ensuring safe transport.
Sanitation and Maintenance: Cleanliness is vital in poultry farming for disease control. Workers clean and disinfect coops, feeders, and other farm areas.
Handling and Transportation: Workers may handle poultry, transfer them within the farm, or assist in shipping to processing plants, sometimes involving humane slaughter.
Record Keeping: Workers may maintain records of farm operations, such as feed consumption, egg production, inventory, and poultry health, aiding management in tracking productivity.
Why Poultry Farm Worker Jobs Are in Demand in Canada
Canada’s agriculture sector is a cornerstone of its economy. The demand for poultry products has grown due to domestic needs and expanding export markets, with Canada ranking among the world’s top poultry producers.
Poultry farming relies on both local and foreign labor, particularly in rural areas where local labor may be insufficient. Foreign workers help fill this labor gap, supporting the industry’s growth.
The demand for poultry farm workers remains strong as Canada prioritizes agriculture, actively seeking foreign workers to fill roles that are challenging to staff locally.
Visa Sponsorship for Poultry Farm Workers in Canada
Canada’s government offers programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP) to enable foreign workers to contribute to the economy.
Poultry farm workers typically fall under the TFWP, which allows employers to hire foreign nationals for jobs where Canadian citizens or permanent residents are unavailable.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The TFWP is the primary visa program for foreign applicants seeking temporary work in Canada, particularly in agriculture. Employers and applicants must meet specific requirements to secure poultry farm worker positions through the TFWP:
Canadian Employer’s Job Offer: Foreign workers must secure a job offer from a Canadian employer who has attempted to hire local staff but found no suitable candidates. The offer must comply with Canadian labor laws regarding salary and working conditions.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Employers typically apply for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to confirm that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. A positive LMIA allows the employer to offer the job.
Application for Work Permit: Once the LMIA is approved, the foreign worker applies for a work permit, submitting the LMIA, job offer letter, proof of funds, and other documents to gain legal work authorization in Canada.
Stay Duration: TFWP work permits are typically valid for up to two years, depending on the job and employer, with options for renewal or, in some cases, pathways to permanent residency.
International Mobility Program (IMP)
While the TFWP is the primary route for poultry farm workers, the IMP may apply in specific cases, such as for workers under trade agreements or specific industries, often without requiring an LMIA. However, most poultry farm jobs fall under the TFWP with an LMIA requirement.
How to Get Poultry Farm Worker Employment in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
Securing poultry farm worker jobs with visa sponsorship involves several steps:
Research Prospective Employers Providing Visa Sponsorship: Search for Canadian poultry farms or agricultural companies that hire foreign workers, particularly in rural areas. Major poultry farms like Sunrise Farms in British Columbia or Prairie Pride Natural Foods in Alberta may offer visa sponsorship through the TFWP. Job boards, company websites, or recruitment agencies specializing in agriculture can help identify opportunities.
Prepare Your Resume and Application: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in poultry care, farming, or animal maintenance. Even without extensive experience, emphasize a strong work ethic, reliability, and relevant skills. Include a concise cover letter expressing your interest in working in Canada and any certifications, such as veterinary technician credentials.
Apply: Follow application instructions carefully, submitting your resume, cover letter, and requested documents. Proactively contact employers or recruitment agencies to confirm visa sponsorship availability.
Wait for an Offer and LMIA Approval: If selected, the employer will provide a job offer and apply for an LMIA. Once approved, you can apply for a work permit, a process that may take weeks or months.
Relocation and Settlement in Canada: After receiving your work permit, arrange relocation to Canada. Some employers offer assistance, such as transportation or housing support. Familiarize yourself with Canadian work culture, labor rights, and local regulations upon arrival.
Advantages of Working as a Poultry Farm Worker in Canada
Guaranteed Job and Steady Employment: Poultry farming is integral to Canada’s economy, ensuring consistent demand for workers and job security.
Competitive Wage: Wages vary by province and employer but are competitive within agriculture, often starting at $15–$17.50 per hour, with potential benefits like accommodation or transport allowances.
Permanent Residency Pathway: Temporary work permits can lead to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) after gaining work experience.
Work-Life Balance: Poultry farms in rural areas often offer a lower cost of living, supporting a balanced lifestyle compared to urban centers.
Cultural Diversity and Work Experience: Working in Canada’s multicultural environment provides exposure to diverse cultures, new farming practices, and valuable international work experience.
Conclusion
Working as a visa-sponsored poultry farm worker in Canada offers foreign workers an excellent opportunity to settle in a thriving country. With rising demand in agriculture, poultry farming provides stable employment, competitive wages, and career growth potential.
By securing a job offer from a Canadian employer, navigating the visa sponsorship process, and leveraging opportunities in Canada’s agricultural sector, international workers can build rewarding careers and lives in this vibrant nation.