Final Draw for 2024 International Experience Canada (IEC)

As the 2024 International Experience Canada (IEC) season draws to a close, important updates have been announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The final round of invitations for the IEC program is scheduled for the week of October 21, 2024.

Deadlines

To be considered for this last round, individuals must submit their profiles before 9 a.m. Eastern Time on October 21, 2024. If you receive an invitation to apply (ITA) before the season officially closes or have already begun your work permit application, you will still have the opportunity to complete and submit your application even after the deadline.

What is the IEC Program?

The IEC program provides young individuals from over 30 participating countries with the chance to work and travel in Canada. This initiative is designed to promote cultural exchange and international experience. The IEC program is divided into three main categories:

1. Working Holiday: Allows participants to work in Canada while traveling.
2. Young Professionals: Designed for those seeking professional development through work placements.
3. International Co-op (Internship): Offers students the opportunity to gain work experience related to their field of study.

Foreign nationals who are successful through one of the IEC programs will be authorized to apply for a Canadian work permit without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). IEC authorizes temporary stay in Canada, with the approval of work permits for a maximum of one year.

Application Process and Timeline

If you receive an ITA before the season concludes, you are still eligible to complete your work permit application, even after October 21. Typically, IRCC processes IEC applications within approximately five weeks from the date of submission.

• Final Round of Invitations: Week of October 21, 2024
• Deadline to Submit IEC Profiles: October 21, 2024, by 9 a.m. Eastern Time
• Processing Time: Approximately 5 weeks from the application submission date

It is essential for prospective applicants to be aware that the IEC program will close for the 2024 season soon after this final round and is expected to reopen for the 2025 season in early January 2025.

If you are considering participating in the IEC program, be sure to submit your profile by the deadline to seize this unique opportunity to gain work experience and explore Canada.