Canada and Iceland Forge Youth Mobility Agreement
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Exciting Opportunities for Youth Mobility
The Canadian government is dedicated to expanding opportunities for its youth to gain global experiences, vital in today’s interconnected world. Soon, Canadian youth will enjoy seamless access to work and travel in a new international destination.
August 4, 2023—Winnipeg, Manitoba—A significant step towards fostering international experience for youth was taken today. Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and Áslaug Arna Sigurbjörnsdóttir, Iceland’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, announced a Youth Mobility Arrangement between Canada and Iceland. This agreement allows youth aged 18 to 30 from both nations to work and travel in each other’s country under International Experience Canada or its Icelandic counterpart for up to 12 months, with an option to extend for another year.
The new arrangement, expected to be operational in 2024, will offer Canadian youth more options to explore international work and travel experiences. This initiative not only enhances cultural exchanges but also strengthens the longstanding bond between Canada and Iceland.
Benefits of the Canada-Iceland Youth Mobility Arrangement
Strengthening International Ties
This agreement enhances the robust relationship between Canada and Iceland, built on shared values and people-to-people connections. It provides young Canadians and Icelanders with the chance to embrace new cultures, develop essential life skills, and enhance their career prospects. This investment in youth is a step towards a more cohesive global community.
Media can access photos of the signing ceremony through Dropbox.
Notable Remarks
“Youth mobility arrangements are all about supporting our young people—their dreams, their passions, and their potential to make a difference. With this exciting arrangement in place, we are creating a path for them to connect, learn, and grow together, fostering friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Together, we are building a world where our youth can gain valuable life skills and experiences while supporting Canadian employers with a larger and more diverse talent pool.”
– Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Iceland is very pleased to sign a youth mobility arrangement with Canada, here in Manitoba. Through this arrangement, Icelandic and Canadian youth will have the opportunity to work and travel in each other’s country, exploring new cultures while enhancing their life skills and improving career prospects.”
– The Honourable Áslaug Arna Sigurbjörnsdóttir, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Iceland
Quick Facts
- Canada hosts the largest population of Icelandic descendants outside Iceland, with 101,990 individuals of Icelandic origin as per the 2021 Census.
- International Experience Canada (IEC) is a reciprocal initiative allowing youth to work and travel abroad. It includes categories such as Working Holiday, International Co-op (internship), and Young Professionals.
- The Canada-Iceland arrangement allows up to 120 youth from each nation to explore work and travel opportunities annually.
- Canada has established youth mobility agreements with 38 countries and territories worldwide.
- Since 2008, over 240,000 Canadians have participated in the IEC Program, returning with experiences that enrich both personal and professional spheres.
- Youth planning their IEC experience can seek assistance from recognized organizations (ROs), which provide work and travel support.
Associated Links
- International Experience Canada
- International Experience Canada program is now open to welcome international youth to Canada
- Government of Canada allowing more international youth to work and travel in Canada
- Work and travel abroad using a recognized organization
Contact Information
Media Inquiries:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
bahoz.daraaziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What is the Canada-Iceland Youth Mobility Arrangement?
This arrangement allows youth aged 18 to 30 to work and travel between Canada and Iceland for up to 12 months, with a possible extension.
When will the arrangement be implemented?
The arrangement is expected to be operational in 2024, once all necessary requirements are fulfilled.
How many youth can participate annually?
Up to 120 youth from each country can participate in this program annually.
What are the benefits of participating in the IEC program?
Participants gain international work experience, cultural exposure, and enhance their life skills, which are valuable for personal and career growth.
Read our immigration guide for more details on international work and travel opportunities.
