Canada and Australia Enhance Youth Mobility Program
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Official Announcement
The governments of Canada and Australia have expanded their Youth Mobility Arrangement, allowing Canadians aged 18 to 35 to work and travel in Australia under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This update, announced by Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and Peter Dutton, Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs, broadens opportunities for young people to gain international work experience.
Benefits of the Expanded Age Range
Previously limited to those aged 30, the new age limit of 35 will enable more young Canadians and Australians to experience life abroad. This change is expected to foster professional development by providing valuable skills in a global environment. Australia remains a top destination for Canadian youth, and this move strengthens the ties between the two nations.
Statements from Officials
“I am pleased that we have agreed to amend this MoU with Australia and further strengthen the great relationship between our two countries. International travel and work allows our youth to immerse themselves in a different culture and develop life skills, all while improving their employability back home. This expanded age range will give more young adults from Canada and Australia the opportunity to broaden their perspective of the world and gain professional work experience while traveling.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Details
The IEC program, initiated in 1965 with Germany, has expanded over the years, promoting cultural exchanges for over 50 years.
To date, over 200,000 Canadians have benefited from the IEC, bringing back transformative experiences that enrich their personal and professional lives.
The IEC offers three categories:
- Working Holiday participants receive open work permits for flexible employment.
- International Co-op participants receive employer-specific permits for targeted study-related experience.
- Young Professionals receive permits for professional experience in their career field.
Additional Resources
Contact Information
Media Inquiries
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
