Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) program continues to grow, with Iceland and Finland both joining in 2024 as the newest partner countries. But the real buzz now is around Singapore, which could soon become partner number 38.
Singapore Negotiations Underway
According to government documents (ATIP), IRCC has classified Singapore as a “high bilateral value” partner and is actively negotiating a new Memorandum of Understanding. The talks were launched during Prime Minister Trudeau’s visit to Singapore in September 2023.
Unlike other expansions, IRCC has been quiet — there have been no tweets, no formal news release. The only public mention came from Channel News Asia, reporting that Canada and Singapore would establish a “youth mobility agreement.”
If concluded, Singapore would be Canada’s first IEC partner in Southeast Asia, opening new opportunities for both Canadians and Singaporeans.
Timeline
The ATIP notes suggest new agreements may be signed within 18–36 months. That means Singapore could realistically be part of the IEC network by the 2026 season.
What About Japan?
In parallel, Canada also modernized its arrangement with Japan, but only within the Working Holiday category. Starting April 2025, Japanese citizens will be able to participate twice, each for up to 12 months (previously only once).
This is an important update, but the real forward-looking news is Singapore’s potential entry into IEC.
The Bigger Picture
IRCC has also flagged Africa, South America, and the Middle East for future expansion. But among ongoing files, Singapore is clearly the one to watch.