International Experience Canada program launched, expanded

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Canadian government recently launched the 2023 International Experience Canada program, increasing the number of younger foreign nationals who can apply.

Key Points:

• Beginning Jan. 9, 2023, foreign nationals from 36 countries between the ages of 18 and 35 (depending on their nationality) can apply for the 2023 IEC program to work in Canada for 12 to 24 months. Applicants can apply through the:
  • Young Professionals category. 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.
  • International Internship category. International Co-op (Internship) participants receive an employer-specific work permit that allows students to gain targeted experience in their field of study.
  • Working Holidays category. Working Holidays participants receive an open work permit that allows them to work anywhere in the host country to support their travels.
• The duration of stay, number of times an individual can apply and what categories the individual can apply for is dependent on their nationality. Applicants are encouraged to use this website to determine their eligibilities.
• The 2023 IEC program will permit 90,000 foreign nationals to apply to work and live in Canada.
• More information regarding the 2023 IEC program is available here.

Additional Information: IEC program participants’ dependents are not allowed to come to Canada through the IEC program. However, they can apply to visit, study or work in Canada through other visa pathways.

BAL Analysis: Canadian authorities launched and expanded the 2023 IEC program to help employers fill labor gaps, including for seasonal work opportunities in Canada’s tourism industry.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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