Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program
Understanding Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program ?
The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) is a Canadian government initiative that allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers to fill seasonal jobs in the agricultural sector. The program provides a valuable source of labor for Canadian farmers and supports the agricultural industry.
To be eligible for the SAWP in Canada, workers must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of a participating country:
The SAWP is currently open to citizens of Mexico, Jamaica, and several countries in the Caribbean.
- Have a valid job offer:
The worker must have a job offer from a Canadian employer that is participating in the SAWP program.
- Meet language requirements:
The worker must be able to speak, read, and understand either English or French at a basic level.
- Meet health and security requirements:
The worker must pass a medical examination and obtain security clearance before coming to Canada.
- Have the necessary skills and experience:
The worker must have experience and skills that are relevant to the job they will be doing in Canada.
- Meet age requirements:
The worker must be between the ages of 18 and 50.
Once an employer is approved to participate in the SAWP program, they can offer seasonal jobs to foreign workers who meet the eligibility requirements. The workers must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer who is participating in the SAWP program, and they must meet certain criteria related to language proficiency, skills and experience, health and security, and age.
Under the SAWP, workers are typically employed for a period of up to 8 months per year and are required to return to their home country at the end of each season. Employers are responsible for providing workers with accommodation, transportation, and basic necessities such as food and clothing.