On August 4, 2023, an exciting new chapter began for the youth of Canada and Iceland as the two countries signed a groundbreaking Youth Mobility Arrangement. This agreement opens up doors for young individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 to embark on a journey of work and travel in each other’s country. Under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, this arrangement grants Icelandic youth the opportunity to gain invaluable international experience in Canada, and vice versa.
In this blog, we will delve into the details of this agreement and how Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants can assist youth from Iceland in navigating this exciting opportunity.
The International Experience Canada (IEC) Program
The IEC program is a government initiative aimed at promoting cultural exchange and providing young individuals with the chance to gain work experience and explore a different country. Under the new Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Iceland, Icelandic youth now have accessible access to participate in the IEC program and travel to Canada for work and adventure.
| Existing Country | Age Limit | IEC Categories |
|---|---|---|
|
Andorra |
18-30 |
Working Holiday |
|
Australia |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Austria |
18-30 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Belgium |
18-30 |
Working Holiday |
|
Chile |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Costa Rica |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Croatia |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Czech Republic |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Denmark |
18-35 |
Working Holiday |
|
Estonia |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
France |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Germany |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Greece |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Hong Kong SAR |
18-30 |
Working Holiday |
|
Iceland |
TBA |
TBA |
|
Ireland |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Italy |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Japan |
18-30 |
Working Holiday |
|
Korea, Republic |
18-30 |
Working Holiday |
|
Latvia Republic |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Lithuania |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Luxembourg |
18-30 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Mexico |
18-29 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Netherlands |
18-30 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals |
|
New Zealand |
18-35 |
Working Holiday |
|
Norway |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Poland |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Portugal |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
San Marino |
18-35 |
Working Holiday |
|
Slovakia |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Slovenia |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Spain |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Sweden |
18-30 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Switzerland |
18-35 |
Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Taiwan |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
Ukraine |
18-35 |
Working Holiday, Young Professionals, International Co-op (Internship) |
|
United Kingdom |
18-30 |
Working Holiday |
Duration and Extensions
Youth from Iceland can initially travel to Canada for up to 12 months under the IEC program. This period allows them to immerse themselves in Canadian culture, work in various industries, and build a global network. Additionally, participants have the option to extend their stay for another 12 months, providing an extended period to further explore the opportunities available in Canada.
Benefits of the Youth Mobility Arrangement
The Youth Mobility Arrangement brings forth a multitude of benefits for the adventurous youth of both Canada and Iceland.
- Professional Growth: Participating in the IEC program allows young individuals to gain valuable international work experience, enhancing their professional skills and broadening their horizons.
- Cultural Exchange: Through this arrangement, Icelandic youth will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Canadian culture, connect with locals, and develop lifelong friendships.
- Personal Development: Living and working in a different country challenges individuals to adapt to new environments, fostering personal growth, independence, and resilience.
- Travel and Exploration: Canada’s vast landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse cultural experiences await Icelandic youth, offering countless opportunities for exploration and adventure during their stay.
How Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants Can Help
At Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants, we understand that navigating immigration processes can be overwhelming. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to assisting Icelandic youth in making their dream of working and traveling in Canada a reality. We provide comprehensive services including visa applications, document preparation, and guidance throughout the entire process. With our expertise, we strive to make the journey smoother and more enjoyable for our clients.
Conclusion
The signing of the Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Iceland paves the way for an exciting avenue of work and travel for the youth of both nations. Through the IEC program, Icelandic youth can now embark on a transformative experience in Canada, gaining international work experience, exploring a new culture, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
With the support of Chitra & Associates Immigration Consultants, this opportunity becomes even more accessible and manageable. So, if you are a young individual from Iceland seeking new adventures and professional growth, seize this opportunity and embark on your Canadian journey today!
