The IEC helps address labor shortages in various Canadian industries, including wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and construction. These bilateral agreements with partner IEC countries provide a valuable source of young labor while offering foreign and Canadian youth the chance to gain international work experience. IEC workers also become eligible for permanent immigration to Canada after accumulating the required work experience, contributing to the country’s long-term labor force.
The steady intake for 2024 reflects the continued expansion seen in the previous year, underscoring the significant role IEC workers play in the Canadian economy. The anticipated inclusion of Finland in the list of partner countries in 2024 further highlights the program’s growth, with both nations expected to ratify their new youth mobility agreement in the coming year.