More Than 8,000 Seasonal Agricultural Workers Travelled to Canada in 2025

More than 8,000 Jamaicans travelled to Canada in 2025 as part of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme, of which approximately 3,303 workers had more than 10 or more years of experience, while 1,051 workers were new to the programme.

Additionally, 417 applications were for female workers that were processed.

Canada’s High Commissioner to Jamaica, His Excellency Mark Berman, made the disclosure at a send-off ceremony for seasonal agricultural workers departing for Canada, held at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Overseas Employment Centre on East Street in downtown Kingston, on Tuesday (January 6).

“We’re really pleased to see that the programme continues to advance with a strong commitment to embracing gender diversity. Also of note, four differently abled workers were placed on Canadian farms, and I really do applaud this development, and we hope we’re able to continue to enhance this programme’s inclusiveness,” Mr. Berman said.

The High Commissioner also disclosed that the Jamaica-Canada farm work programme marks 60 years of partnership this year.

He noted that for six decades, Jamaican workers have played an essential role in strengthening Canada’s agricultural sector and ensuring food security for Canadian families.

“And it’s your dedication and your hard work that have made a lasting impact, and for that, we’re deeply thankful. In this spirit, I want to recognise the outstanding collaboration between the Migration Section of the High Commission of Canada and the Ministry’s Overseas Employment Programme. This teamwork has been central to the programme’s success over the years,” Mr. Berman said.

He noted that the Government of Canada remains dedicated to working hand-in-hand with Jamaica and Canadian employers to ensure that the programme continues to operate fairly, safely, and efficiently, protecting the participants and sustaining the benefits for all involved.

Meanwhile, Mr. Berman expressed appreciation to the Jamaicans for participating in the programme, noting that “your efforts not only sustain our agricultural industry but also enable Canadian growers and producers to thrive, strengthening food security at home and abroad”.

“Your participation creates economic opportunities for yourselves and for your families, it fosters new skills development, and it enables sharing of agricultural practices between our two countries,” he said.

The High Commissioner also acknowledged the resilience shown by the Jamaican partners and workers in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

“Despite the challenges and the disruptions caused by the storm, your determination to keep the programme moving forward has been truly inspiring. This perseverance reflects the strength of our partnership between Canada and Jamaica and the commitment that has sustained this programme for 60 years,” he said.