Estonian-Canadian youth exchange agreement to enter into force

On Aug 1st an Estonian-Canadian youth mobility agreement enters into force that will allow both countries' 18-35-year-old citizens to stay and work in the other country for a while.

The Foreign Ministry said the accord will give young people broader opportunities to further their academic and vocational education, obtain work experience and get to know better the other country's languages, culture and society. "The agreement will also create a basis for improving the competitiveness of the two countries' educational institutions and enterprises," Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said.

Under the agreement young people will be able to work in the receiving country on the basis of employment contracts agreed in advance and get additional training to further their careers. The accord also enables young people to travel in the receiving country and at the same time hold short-term jobs.

The agreement outlines the conditions for entry into Canada. An entrant has to meet the requirements of Canadian immigration acts, have proof of sufficient funds to cover initial expenses in that country, and hold health insurance. More detailed information about the necessary permits, application process and fees can be obtained from the office of the Canadian embassy in Tallinn. Canadian citizens who wish to travel to Estonia can get information from the Estonian embassy in Ottawa.

Baltic News Service