Canada Opens International Experience Work Permit to Attract Young Workforce in 2023
Canada recognizes the valuable contributions made by the younger workforce to its economic and social prosperity. International youth is critical in increasing diversity and introducing new skills to the Canadian economy as they come from varied cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Their knowledge, education, and talent add more depth and meaning to the country’s expansion and development plans.
The year 2023 already seems promising to Canada as the country announced the opening of the International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit. The announcement was made by the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, to welcome foreign nationals who have expressed interest in gaining work and travel experience in Canada. If your file is already in the IEC pool, you will soon be invited to apply for your Canadian work permit.
The move will help Canada to curb labour shortages that it has been dealing with since the onset of the pandemic.
IEC Program in Canada- An Overview
The IEC program allows citizens of partner nations with bilateral Youth Mobility Agreements with Canada; and fall under the age group of 18-29, 18-30, or 18-35, depending on the country of origin. Such people may apply for an IEC work permit under three main streams:
The Working Holiday: The scheme grants an Open Work Permit (OWP) for two years, allowing them to work temporarily in Canada while funding their vacation.
You are eligible if:
- You have secured a job offer in Canada
- Wish to work for more than one employer in Canada
- Want to work in multiple locations
- Wish to fund your vacation
Young Professionals: The pathway is for those seeking international work experience in Canada. You must have a job offer in Canada that matches your skills. Applicants under the Young Professionals category are issued an employer-specific work permit.
You are eligible if:
- You have a valid job offer in Canada for a position that contributes to your professional development; and
- Intend to work for the same employer during their stay in Canada.
The International Co-op Internship Stream- The category aims to attract overseas nationals seeking global work experience in their field of study.
You may apply for this visa, if:
- You are registered at a post-secondary institution outside of Canada;
- have secured a valid job offer for a work placement or internship in Canada that you need as part of your education in Canada;
- Intend to work for the same employer during their stay in Canada
Potential applicants must submit an expression of interest and wait for an invitation to apply for this program in the IEC pool. Selected candidates will receive an ITA based on which they submit an open work permit application under the stream they are eligible for.
Eligibility Requirements for the IEC Program
- be a citizen (passport holder) of one of the partner countries that have a bilateral Youth Mobility Arrangement with Canada;
- have a valid passport for the duration of their stay in Canada
- be between the ages of 18 and 30 or 35 at the time of application
- have at least $2,500 CAN upon landing to help cover initial expenses;
- be able to take out health insurance for the duration of their stay
- not be accompanied by dependents; and
Do you want to move to Canada temporarily? Visaexperts can help. We offer over 28 years of expertise and experience navigating global migration pathways. If you are interested, call us at 8595338595 or mail us at [email protected].
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