Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is revolutionizing the processing of International Experience Canada (IEC) work permits through an expanded integration of advanced automation technology. Our newly introduced tool strategically assesses IEC work permit applications by categorizing them based on complexity, streamlining routine approvals, and significantly expediting decision-making processes. This innovative approach not only enhances overall efficiency but also accelerates outcomes for select applicants, fostering the growth of the IEC program and facilitating seamless work and travel experiences for international youth in Canada.
As part of IRCC’s commitment to responsible technology usage, our automated tools undergo regular reviews to ensure they align with their intended purposes, maintaining consistency with applications subject to full human scrutiny.
The IEC work permit tool’s triage function efficiently manages clerical and repetitive tasks associated with application sorting. This empowers officers to focus on assessing applications and making final decisions. The tool employs rules established by experienced IRCC officers, aligning with legislative and regulatory criteria. Applications are directed to officers based on office capabilities and expertise for further processing.
The eligibility function of the tool identifies routine applications, streamlining the processing flow through criteria developed by officers. The file is then routed to an officer for a final decision on the applicant’s admissibility to Canada. Applications not automatically approved for eligibility may undergo manual review by an officer. It’s essential to note that only an IRCC officer possesses the authority to refuse an application; the automated tool neither refuses nor recommends refusal.
In line with our commitment to responsible technology development and adherence to privacy and human rights protection, IRCC has conducted an algorithmic impact assessment (AIA) for the IEC work permit tool. The AIA, categorized as having a moderate impact level, incorporates numerous measures to mitigate potential risks. These measures include thorough reviews for discriminatory impacts, privacy and security features embedded in the tool’s design, and the discretionary power of officers to overturn tool-generated decisions. Trust IRCC for a technologically advanced, responsible, and streamlined IEC work permit application process.
