On January 6, 2012, I had the honour to open the 2012 edition of the Canada-Belgium Working holiday youth mobility initiative, which is part of International Experience Canada (EIC). The number of available places increases by 50% from 500 in 2011 to 750 for the year 2012.
Young Belgians can download the application kit by clicking on the link in the right-hand column on this page.
Why such a important increase? Because the available slots are attributed faster and faster very year, especially since 2010, in spite of a gradual increase of the number of slots from 400 in 2007 to 500 in 2011.
The Canada-Belgium Working Holiday scheme exists since 2007. This category of International Experience Canada is aimed at young Belgians between the ages of 18 and 30 who want to travel to Canada on a tourist and cultural adventure, while being allowed to work during their stay to supplement their financial resources.
Applicants selected under this program may stay in Canada for up to one year, and the eligibility criteria are as flexible as possible. Those criteria are the following:
I hope that many young Belgians will take part in this youth mobility initiative in 2012 and enjoy an unforgettable stay in Canada.
Louis de Lorimier
Ambassador of Canada