published on 3 March 2021 @ 7:30 pm · COMMENT

Immigration Update

Newly Opened Youth Mobility Work Permit Options Welcomed by Canadian Employers

On March 1, 2021, the Government of Canada opened the 2021 International Experience Canada (IEC) applicant pool for certain countries. Selected applicants through this youth mobility program will be eligible to work in Canada with either an employer-specific or open work permit, depending on the category. Generally, this category is open to youth ages 18 to 35, subject to the applicable country-specific requirements.

Currently, during the COVID-19 travel restrictions, open work permit holders approved pursuant to a Youth Mobility Agreement must present a valid job offer in order to activate their work permits at the port of entry. In light of this requirement, the government has introduced a new program requirement for candidates applying under the Working Holiday open work permit category. In order to receive an invitation to apply, these candidates must provide evidence of a valid job offer as part of their application.

This facilitative work permit category provides Canadian employers with the opportunity to attract and hire foreign talent and a welcomed alternative to the more cumbersome Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.