Canada will issue 90,000 visas to young people in 2023
Young people between 18 and 35 can participate in the exchange program and gain work experience in Canada. Applications will be accepted as early as January.
Minister of Immigration and Citizenship Sean Fraser announced the acceptance of applications for the 2023 International Experience Canada (IEC) program, which has seen a 20% increase in the number of applicants.
The IEC is a program that allows young people to work and travel across Canada at the same time. Through participation in the IEC, young people learn the culture and foreign languages, develop the skills they need for life and improve their future employment prospects.
In 2023, the authorities intend to issue IEC visas to nearly 90,000 applicants. This will help employers fill gaps in the workforce, including for seasonal work in Canada's tourism industry.
Sean Fraser said at the press conference, "By giving young people the opportunity to travel across Canada and gain work experience, we strengthen our economy and help Canadian businesses succeed, especially in places like Banff that need seasonal help."
Those wishing to apply will be able to do so from January 9, 2023.
Canada has agreements with 36 countries under the IEC program. Young people from Europe, South America, and some Asian countries are eligible to work and travel to Canada for up to 2 years. Age ranges from 18 to 35 or 18 to 30 (the age range depends on the country).
You can participate in the program in one of 3 categories:
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Work Holiday — participants have the right to work across Canada for any Canadian employer;
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Young Professionals — Participants receive a work permit from a specific employer that allows them to gain targeted experience in their field of study;
- International Co-op Internship — for students from an institution of higher education in their country with a work permit from a Canadian employer.
