Yesterday, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Hon Sean Fraser, launched the 2023 International Experience Canada (IEC) Program with a 20% increase in the number of applicants who can apply. Applicants will be able to apply as of January 9, 2023.
IEC is a reciprocal program that allows Canadian and international youth to work and travel in each other's countries. This increase means that nearly 90,000 candidates will be able to work and travel in Canada, including Francophone youth, this will help employers fill labour gaps, including for seasonal work opportunities in Canada's tourism industry.
IEC helps youth explore new cultures, languages, and societies, all while developing life skills and improving their job prospects for the future.
Applicants will be able to apply as of January 9, 2023.
Canada has youth mobility arrangements with 36 countries and foreign territories through the IEC Program that allow youth from Canada’s partner countries to work and travel in Canada for up to 2 years. The ages range from 18 to 35 depending on the country.
There are 3 categories of participation under the program:
- Working Holiday participants receive an open work permit that allows them to work anywhere in the host country to support their travels.
- International Co-op (Internship) participants receive an employer-specific work permit that allows students to gain targeted experience in their field of study.
- Young Professionals participants receive an employer-specific work permit to gain targeted, professional work experience that is within their field of study or career path.
To apply, see here!