Work in Canada
International Experience Canada 2024 Now Accepting Applications
Canada invites the global youth as Immigration Minister Marc Miller officially inaugurates the International Experience Canada 2024 program. Offering a thrilling blend of work and travel, this initiative is set to host nearly 90,000 individuals from IEC partner countries.
International Experience Program 2024
Canada, under the leadership of Minister Marc Miller, welcomes the world’s youth to participate in the International Experience Canada program, emphasizing the reciprocal benefits it brings. Beyond being a tool for Canadian employers seeking talented individuals, the program boosts the tourism sector and encourages young Canadians to explore work and travel experiences globally.
IEC introduces three distinctive categories catering to diverse aspirations:
- Working Holiday Participants: With a Canada open work permit to support travel while working.
- International Co-op (Internship) Participants: Gain targeted experience in a specific field with an employer-specific work permit.
- Young Professionals Participants: An employer-specific work permit for targeted professional work experience in their field.
International Youth Collaboration
IEC bridges the gap between Canadian and international youth, aged 18 to 35, fostering mutual exploration of each other’s countries. With over 35 partner countries and territories, Canada has expanded its youth mobility partnerships, offering more options for international experiences.
How IEC Works
The program functions on a candidate/applicant system. Eligible individuals submit their candidacy profiles to IRCC, and upon selection, they’re invited to apply for a work permit. Automation streamlines the process, supporting the program’s growth and facilitating work and travel for international youth in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for IEC
Candidates applying to IEC must meet specific criteria, including:
- citizenship of partner countries
- A valid passport
- Age within the eligible range
- Financial stability
- Health insurance
- Admissibility to Canada, and
- A round-trip ticket or equivalent financial resources
Seven Recognized Organizations Facilitating IEC
Recognized Organizations (ROs) play a crucial role in supporting IEC applicants by providing information, assisting with travel plans, and offering general support and advice. They enhance the application process and ensure a smooth transition for participants. Here’s the list of seven ROs:
- AIESEC Canada
- GO International
- IAESTE
- A-Way to Work
- Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN),
- Stepwest, and
- SWAP Working Holidays
IEC stands as a strategic solution to address labor shortages in Canada’s industries. With bilateral agreements and partnerships, Canada taps into a young and dynamic workforce, not only meeting immediate labor demands but also providing a pathway for skilled individuals to potentially immigrate permanently.
Canada’s Expanding Horizons
In a testament to its global outlook, Canada has signed new deals with Finland, Iceland, and Ukraine, and strengthened agreements with South Korea and the United Kingdom. These collaborations open up avenues for Canadian youth to gain international exposure.
IEC’s Impact on Canada’s Labor Force
The program’s contribution extends beyond immediate labor solutions. By providing young, skilled individuals, the IEC bolsters key sectors such as wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and construction. The bilateral agreements underscore the program’s role in sustaining Canada’s labor force in the long term.
Anticipating 2024 and Beyond
As the 2024 IEC intake builds upon the successes of previous years, Finland is poised to join the list of partner countries. This expansion reflects the program’s enduring significance and its role in shaping the future of global youth mobility. The International Experience Canada 2024 program opens doors to a world of possibilities for both Canadian and international youth.
