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Contact Canada's  farmstay programme is designed especially for English language students who are interested in immersing themselves into an English speaking environment and who have an interest in learning about life in the Canadian countryside. This programme gives participants the exciting opportunity to live in an exclusively English-speaking environment and experience life on a farm - a big part of Canada's heritage.

Who can participate?

Everyone is welcome to participate.  All applicants, however, should  remember that farms are usually located some distance from a town or city.  If you are used to the fast life of the city,  you should  be prepared to adjust to a  slower  and more peaceful way of life.   If you are someone who loves to shop,  prepare to  save some money as it is likely that you won't visit a store more than once a week.   And, if you enjoy going out at night during the week,  plan to spend more time in the evenings studying  English, reading,  and socializing with your host family.

Participants are encouraged to be outgoing and energetic.  Life on the farm will require you to actively communicate  with your family on a daily basis by initiating conversation and involving yourself in the daily life of the family.   Depending on your English ability, you will experience different levels of frustration and loneliness as you attempt to adapt to life on a farm.   Remember to bring your sense you humour as it can often help you through these times.

How long can I stay?

For those who do not possess a working visa and want just a sample of country living , we offer a  one to four week country stay program.  Host may be a farm, country B&B and outdoor progrqam operator.
For those who have a working visa, a one month to three month stay is the average length of stay.

Those participating in the Working Farmstay programme  (work visa or working holiday visa required),  can participate for longer than three months depending on the location requested and the time of year.

What type of farms are available?

There are a variety of farms available across the country: dairy farms, cattle ranches, fruit orchards, organic farms, and more.

Who can participate in a Working Farmstay

This  programme was established for overseas  visitors who are traveling in Canada with a Working Holiday Visa.  Participants with this visa (or any  government issued work permit) are permitted to work in exchange for a  room and three meals per day.    Participants can expect to work  5-8 hours per day.  The amount and type of work will depend on the farm  selected.

How do I get to the farm?
Contact Canada's farmstay coordinator will arrange for the farmer to meet you at the nearest bus depot or airport to the farm.

Payment Policy
    1. The entire placement fee is due at the time of application and $60 is non-refundable except in cases where a home
        cannot be found.
    2. After a farm has been confirmed, the applicant must pay the full amount for  the stay period.
 

Cancellation Policy
   1. All cancellations must be submitted in writing.
    2. If notice of cancellation is received less than 15 days prior to the start date: the farmstay placement fee;
       a maximum of 4 week’s farmstay fees ; and the GST will not be refunded.  

NOTE:All participants are required to have medical insurance and read and sign Contact Canada’s farmstay agreement.

How to apply:

1. Submit your application form (Contact Canada will reply immediately to acknowledge receipt of your form)
2. Send your placement fee to Contact Canada. After receiving your placement fee, the farmstay coordinator will
   find you an appropriate family . (We accept Credit Card - VISA, Master, Amex, JCB, )
3. After a farm has been found, the farm & host family profile along with directions
   to the farm will be sent to you to review and confirm. Participants will also be expected to sign our Farmstay
    agreement Form.

update: 2004.12.21