Impact on IEC Work Permit Holders in the Express Entry Pool

Currently, in the Canadian Express Entry system, candidates can earn CRS points by receiving a valid job offer. Specifically, eligible job offers can bring additional points:

• For job offers in National Occupational Classification (NOC) training, education experience, and TEER-0 level (management positions), candidates can earn 200 points;
• For job offers in other NOC categories, candidates can earn 50 points.

However, applicants holding the IEC work permit under the “Young Professionals” category will no longer earn CRS points for a valid job offer starting from December 18, 2024. Previously, these applicants could earn an additional 50 or 200 CRS points based on a valid job offer if they met other requirements.

It is worth noting that although the Canadian immigration authorities plan to fully remove CRS points for all valid job offers in Spring 2025, IEC work permit holders will face this change earlier than other candidates, potentially having a significant impact on their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Reason Behind the Change

Although the Canadian immigration authorities have not explicitly explained why the CRS points for IEC “Young Professionals” work permit holders are being removed earlier, this policy change reflects reforms made by the Canadian government to reduce fraud related to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA). The Canadian immigration authorities first announced the plan to remove CRS points for job offers in December 2024 and plan to officially implement it in Spring 2025. Meanwhile, the immigration authorities have confirmed that this change will affect candidates in the Express Entry pool but will not affect those who have already submitted permanent residence applications or received an ITA.

Overview of the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is an initiative launched by the Canadian government to provide young people with international work and travel opportunities. This program allows young people from designated countries to come to Canada to work and travel, typically for 12 to 24 months, with the aim of promoting cultural exchange, enhancing international understanding, and providing valuable work experience.

1. Program Background and Goals

The IEC program is managed by the Canadian Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and primarily targets young people between the ages of 18 and 35. The core goal of the program is to help participants broaden their horizons and enhance their personal and professional development through work opportunities and cultural exchange.

2. Program Categories

The IEC program offers several ways for young people to participate, mainly including the following three categories:

• Working Holiday: This category is for those who wish to travel in Canada and support their travels by working part-time. Participants can work in Canada for up to 12 months without needing a job offer in advance. This visa allows young people to travel freely within Canada while legally working during their trip, enriching their international experience.
• Young Professionals: This category is for those who wish to work full-time in Canada in a field related to their profession. Through this category, participants can gain work experience in their career field, enhancing their competitiveness in the international job market.
• International Co-op: This category is for students, particularly those who wish to do internships or cooperative education programs in Canada. Through this category, students can gain valuable international practical experience that is highly beneficial for their future careers.

3. Application Requirements

The specific requirements for applying to the IEC program vary by country/region but generally include the following basic conditions:

• Applicants must generally be between the ages of 18 and 35 (with some countries having different age limits).
• Applicants must hold a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond their planned departure from Canada.
• Applicants must have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Canada.
• Applicants must have a clean criminal record and meet health requirements.

Additionally, there may be extra specific requirements depending on the country or region, such as language proficiency or specific work experience.

4. Participating Countries and Regions

The IEC program is open to multiple countries and regions, allowing participants to choose the program category that best suits their needs. This includes, but is not limited to, Hong Kong, France, Germany, the UK, Australia, and other countries and regions.

5. Program Benefits

• Cultural Exchange: Through living and working in Canada, participants can immerse themselves in Canadian culture and expand their international perspectives.
• Career Development: By gaining work experience with Canadian companies or organizations, participants can enhance their professional skills and improve their global competitiveness.
• Travel and Exploration: The Working Holiday category is especially suitable for those who wish to work and travel at the same time. Participants can explore various places in Canada and enjoy its beautiful natural landscapes and diverse cultures.
• International Networking: The program provides an opportunity to collaborate with young people from around the world, helping participants build an international social and professional network.

6. How to Apply

To apply for the IEC program, candidates usually need to apply online through the official website of the Canadian Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Applicants need to submit personal information, supporting documents, and wait for an invitation via the online platform.