Expiry date of IEC application and COVID-19

[conwy]

I applied for an IEC Canadian Work Permit in mid-2019 and was subsequently approved.

The letter states that I must seek entry to Canada "by 2020/06/17".

Due to the recent Coronavirus lockdowns, I'm afraid I might not be able to enter Canada by June 17th, even if I book a flight in advance.

Does anyone know whether Canada is still allowing people with approval for a work permit to enter Canada and pick up the permit?

Alternately, do you know if they're making any special exceptions for people who had the approval but are no longer able to fly in and pick up the visa?

I've send a message to IRCC asking whether, due to the exceptional situation, they might be willing to extend the expiry date to, say, sometime later in 2020.

Any info/advice you have would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[Bs65]

Googled On the IRCC site

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19/iec.html

 

[conwy]

Thanks for posting this. Somehow I missed it during my Google searches.

Looks like there's a possibility they would extend the deadline:

I received a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction, but do not wish to come to a Canadian port of entry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Will my letter expire?

A Port of Entry Letter of Introduction is valid for one year after its date of issue. Once a letter is issued under the IEC program, it is considered a participation. An issued letter cannot be cancelled.

These letters may be extended upon request, via our Web form. Be sure to select “International Experience Canada” from the drop-down menu and include as many details as possible to support your case.