Maple News reports that certain participants in Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) program are now eligible for an extension of their Letter of Introduction (LOI). This move aims to accommodate youth facing travel challenges due to COVID-19, particularly those whose LOIs are nearing expiration.
The IEC program includes three streams: Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op. Although these participants were exempt from Canada’s earlier travel restrictions—provided they held a valid job offer and a port of entry LOI—many were still unable to enter the country due to continuing global travel limitations.
To address this issue, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is allowing affected individuals to apply for an LOI extension of up to 12 months. Eligible candidates must have an LOI expiring within 30 days and should submit their extension request using IRCC’s official web form.
The length of an extension depends on whether the applicant has already been granted an extension and whether a valid medical exam is still in effect or can be renewed. Each request is assessed individually, with final decisions at the discretion of immigration officers.
Participants who plan to travel to Canada under the IEC program must be prepared to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and present a clear plan outlining where they will quarantine and how they will access essentials such as food and medicine.
Additionally, all IEC participants must secure adequate health insurance for the entire duration of their stay in Canada. Even if they have provincial coverage or are insured through their employer, the policy must include full medical services and COVID-19-related coverage, including testing.
This extension policy is a temporary relief measure designed to ensure that international youth can still make use of their IEC opportunity once public health and travel conditions improve. Maple News will continue to monitor and report on further updates for IEC program applicants.