Last week, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted fresh draws within the International Experience Canada (IEC) program pools. From February 5 to February 11, a total of 4,857 young individuals from various countries received invitations to apply for an IEC open work permit. As of February 11, there are 31,392 candidates registered in the pool, eagerly awaiting their turn to be invited.
Diverse Range of Invitations
In this latest round of invitations, candidates from a multitude of countries were selected. Notably, there were 3 invitations issued to applicants from Andorra, 115 to those from Australia, 4 to Austria, 32 to Belgium, 176 to Chile, 14 to Costa Rica, 4 to Croatia, 33 to the Czech Republic, 6 to Denmark, 3 to Estonia, 1,394 to France, 146 to Germany, 9 to Greece, 11 to Hong Kong, 245 to Ireland, 87 to Italy, 213 to Japan, 1,093 to Korea, 8 to Latvia, 14 to Lithuania, 2 to Luxembourg, 40 to the Netherlands, 62 to New Zealand, 3 to Norway, 29 to Poland, 25 to Portugal, 7 to Slovakia, 74 to Spain, 10 to Sweden, 8 to Switzerland, and 307 to Taiwan. Additionally, a substantial 680 invitations were extended to applicants from the United Kingdom.
Total Approvals in 2024
For the year 2024, Canada has already approved a significant number of IEC applications, totaling 36,753. These figures reflect the growing interest and participation in the IEC program among young individuals seeking work experience in Canada.
What is International Experience Canada (IEC)
International Experience Canada (IEC) offers young individuals the invaluable opportunity to travel and work in Canada for a period of up to two years. This program encompasses three distinct categories tailored to suit the diverse aspirations and professional goals of participants: Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op (Internship).
Understanding the Three Categories
- Working Holiday: This category enables participants to immerse themselves in Canadian culture while engaging in short-term employment to support their travels.
- Young Professionals: Designed for individuals seeking professional development opportunities, this category allows participants to gain valuable work experience in their chosen field.
- International Co-op (Internship): Geared towards students enrolled in post-secondary institutions, this category provides the chance to undertake internships in Canadian companies, enhancing their academic learning with practical work experience.
Eligibility and Application Process
Citizens of partner countries are eligible to apply for one or more of the aforementioned categories within the IEC program. Applicants can choose to apply directly to IEC or enlist the assistance of a recognized organization (RO) for guidance and support throughout the application process. ROs, based in Canada, specialize in facilitating work and travel experiences for both foreign nationals and Canadian youth participating in the IEC program. In some cases, select ROs may extend their services to assist a limited number of youth from non-partner countries in accessing the benefits of IEC.
Ensuring Your Rights as a Foreign Worker
Participants in the IEC program are afforded the protection of Canadian labour laws, ensuring fair treatment and safeguarding their rights in the workplace. Employers are mandated to adhere to these regulations, which include:
- Payment of the minimum wage for the work performed.
- Provision of a safe and secure work environment.
- Prohibition from confiscating passports or work permits belonging to participants.
In the event of any infringement upon these rights by an employer, participants are encouraged to report such instances to the appropriate authorities. It is crucial to note that participants are prohibited from engaging in employment with employers who have been identified as non-compliant and are currently subject to a ban.
International Experience Canada offers an enriching avenue for young individuals to broaden their horizons, gain valuable work experience, and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Canada. By understanding the program’s categories, eligibility criteria, and rights afforded to participants, individuals can embark on their Canadian adventure with confidence, knowing that they are supported by robust legal protections and comprehensive support networks.
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