Greenhouse worker jobs in Canada offer foreign applicants a legal entry route through employer-sponsored work permits, hourly wages of CAD $15–$20, and potential permanent residency pathways. With nearly 900 commercial greenhouse operations nationwide, Canada continues to recruit international workers to fill agricultural labor shortages.
Canada’s greenhouse sector produces hundreds of thousands of tons of vegetables, fruits, and flowers annually, making it one of the fastest-growing segments of the agricultural economy.
Why Is Canada Hiring Greenhouse Workers?
Canada faces ongoing labor shortages in agriculture. According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, greenhouse vegetable production has expanded significantly over the past decade.
Leamington, widely known as the Greenhouse Capital of Canada, hosts one of North America’s largest concentrations of greenhouse farms. Employers in this region regularly hire foreign workers through structured visa programs.
In our experience reviewing agricultural placements near Leamington and Kingsville, employers prioritize reliability, physical fitness, and willingness to work flexible shifts over formal education.
What Is the Salary for Greenhouse Workers in Canada?
Average Pay
- Hourly Wage: CAD $15–$20
- Monthly Income: CAD $2,400–$3,200 (full-time)
- Annual Income: CAD $30,000–$38,000
- Overtime Pay: 1.5× hourly rate after provincial limits
Some employers also provide:
- Free or subsidized housing
- Shared transportation
- Health coverage (depending on province)
- Seasonal bonuses
Workers in Ontario often earn slightly above minimum wage due to strong demand in commercial vegetable production.
How Does Visa Sponsorship Work for Greenhouse Jobs?
Most foreign greenhouse workers enter Canada under agricultural streams such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Step-by-Step Process
- Secure a job offer from a licensed employer
- Employer applies for LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)
- Receive positive LMIA approval
- Apply for work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- Travel and begin employment
Processing times generally range between 6–12 weeks depending on your country of application.
What Are the Main Responsibilities of a Greenhouse Worker?
Daily Duties
- Planting and transplanting seedlings
- Watering, pruning, and grafting crops
- Training vines and tying plant canopies
- Harvesting vegetables and flowers
- Packing produce for shipment
- Operating irrigation and temperature systems
- Cleaning and maintaining greenhouse facilities
Work environments are typically warm and humid, especially in vegetable production facilities.
What Crops Are Grown in Canadian Greenhouses?
Greenhouses in Canada produce high-value crops year-round.
Vegetables
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Bell peppers
- Lettuce
Fruits
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Specialty citrus varieties
Flowers & Plants
- Orchids
- Decorative cut flowers
- Marigolds
The controlled indoor environment allows consistent production even during Canada’s harsh winters.
What Are the Basic Requirements?
Most greenhouse roles are classified as low-skilled or entry-level, meaning formal education is not mandatory.
Minimum Criteria
- Basic English communication
- Physical stamina (8-hour standing shifts)
- Ability to work in warm, humid settings
- Clean criminal background
- Valid passport and immigration eligibility
Prior agricultural experience (6–12 months) increases selection chances but is not compulsory.
Can Greenhouse Jobs Lead to Permanent Residency?
Yes. After gaining Canadian work experience, eligible workers may apply through:
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Express Entry (in qualifying categories)
Workers who complete 12–24 months of authorized employment significantly improve their PR eligibility profile.
Where to Apply for Greenhouse Worker Jobs in Canada?
To avoid scams, always use verified platforms:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed
- Workopolis
- Glassdoor
Specialized recruitment agencies such as Canada Farm Jobs also connect foreign workers with licensed employers and assist with relocation.
How to Apply Successfully (Practical Steps)
- Prepare a clear resume highlighting agricultural or physical labor experience
- Emphasize reliability, teamwork, and flexibility
- Confirm employer provides LMIA support
- Keep passport and medical documents ready
- Respond promptly to recruiter emails (usually within 24–48 hours)
Conclusion
Canada’s greenhouse industry is the quiet engine of its agricultural economy. In 2026, with nearly 900 commercial operations and chronic labour shortages, employers are not just hiring they are sponsoring. Whether you are planting seedlings in Leamington or harvesting peppers in British Columbia, you are earning up to CAD $22 per hour, gaining Canadian work experience, and building a file for permanent residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do greenhouse jobs require previous farming experience?
No, but 6–12 months of agricultural or physical labor experience improves your chances.
Is accommodation provided?
Many employers provide free or shared on-site housing, especially in rural areas.
How long does visa processing take?
Work permit processing usually takes 6–12 weeks after LMIA approval.
Can greenhouse workers apply for PR?
Yes, after gaining eligible Canadian work experience under provincial or federal programs.
