Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the eagerly awaited opening of the 2024 season for the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program. This heralds a fantastic opportunity for nearly 90,000 young individuals from IEC partner countries and territories to embark on a transformative journey to Canada, contributing to the vibrant cultural exchange.
Key Highlights:
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Application Opening:
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- As of December 11, 2023, aspiring participants can submit their profiles to be considered for the 2024 season.
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Reciprocal Program:
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- IEC is a reciprocal program fostering work and travel opportunities for Canadian and international youth aged 18–35 in each other’s countries.
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Expanding Partnerships:
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- Canada has youth mobility partnerships with over 35 countries and territories.
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- New arrangements or agreements have been signed with Finland, Iceland, and Ukraine in 2023.
Existing partnerships with South Korea and the United Kingdom have been enhanced.
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Automation Technology Integration:
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- IEC is leveraging automation technology to streamline processing, supporting program growth and facilitating work and travel for international youth in Canada.
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Positive Impact:
The opening of the 2024 season allows participants to engage in the Canadian experience through work and travel.
This initiative is mutually beneficial, positively impacting employers seeking to fill positions and contributing to the growth of Canada’s tourism industry.
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IEC Participant Countries Include:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom.
Participation Categories:
- Working Holiday Participants:
- Receive an open work permit, allowing them to work anywhere in Canada to support their travels.
- International Co-op (Internship) Participants:
- Receive an employer-specific work permit, providing students with targeted experience in their field of study.
- Young Professionals Participants:
- Receive an employer-specific work permit, offering targeted professional work experience within their field of study or career path.
Exciting Updates:
- Canada–Finland Agreement:
- In March 2023, Canada and Finland signed a new youth mobility agreement.
- Youth from Finland are gearing up to participate once the agreement is ratified by both countries, expected in 2024.
- Canada–Ukraine Youth Mobility Agreement:
- Youth will soon have the opportunity to participate in the Canada–Ukraine youth mobility agreement once travel to Ukraine becomes safe.
How to Participate in International Experience Canada:
Aspiring participants can submit their profiles starting December 11, 2023, for a chance to embark on a transformative journey to Canada, gaining international experience, and contributing to cultural exchange.
Benefits for Employers: Employers in Canada looking to diversify their teams and gain fresh perspectives can also benefit from the IEC program by hosting talented international youth.
Get Ready for an Adventure: Whether you’re seeking work and travel opportunities, targeted internship experience, or professional growth, the IEC 2024 season promises exciting possibilities. Stay tuned for a life-changing adventure in Canada!