Program delivery update: International Experience Canada [R205(b) – C21]

March 27, 2023

As of January 9, 2023, participations to the International Experience Canada (IEC) program are counted when foreign nationals have their work permit issued at the port of entry (POE). If foreign nationals do not come to Canada before their POE letter of introduction expires, it does not count as a participation.

This policy is retroactive, and foreign nationals can reapply for an IEC work permit if they still meet the program eligibility criteria. Previously, IEC participations were counted when the POE letter of introduction was issued. The instructions related to the IEC program have been updated to reflect this.

The term “IEC participation fee” was also replaced with “IEC fee”.

In addition, as of Season 2023, IEC is implementing the ICEX Vives program through the Young Professionals stream for Spain (similar to the VIE stream for France). The instructions to the bilateral agreements and arrangements have been updated to reflect this change.

Updated instructions

• International Experience Canada (IEC) – [R205(b) - C21] – Reciprocity – International Mobility Program
• Participation eligibility requirements – IEC [R205(b) - C21] – Reciprocity – International Mobility Program
• Bilateral agreements and arrangements – IEC [R205(b) - C21] – Reciprocity – International Mobility Program
• Recognized organizations for foreign youth – IEC [R205(b) - C21] – Reciprocity – International Mobility Program
• Extending the period of participation or changing employers – IEC [R205(b) - C21] – Reciprocity – International Mobility Program

Deleted instructions

• International Experience Canada [R205(b)] (exemption code C21)