Two of the world's biggest study regions want students to move more easily between them. At the 21st Canada–EU summit in Montreal on 29–30 October 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen launched the Alliance for the Future, a partnership covering research, innovation, technology and education.
Erasmus+: from partial to deeper participation
Canada and the EU will start negotiations on further Canadian participation in Erasmus+, the EU programme for education, training, youth and sport. Today the EU treats Canada as a country not associated to the programme, so Canadian organisations can join only certain actions, and Canadian universities depend on European partner institutions to apply for exchange funding. Exchanges let students spend two to twelve months abroad for credit, with possible support for travel and living costs.
According to European Commission figures cited by CIC News, projects selected from 2022 to 2024 planned for 1,007 students and staff to go from Canada to Europe and 866 the other way. The current Erasmus+ period ends in 2027. No timeline for the talks has been published.
Youth mobility and qualifications
The two sides will also explore a "next-generation youth mobility partnership". Canada already has youth mobility arrangements with 22 of the 27 EU countries through International Experience Canada, generally for people aged 18 to 35, with permits usually valid for 12 or 24 months. Further talks cover fewer barriers for young people, easier movement for highly skilled workers and researchers, and the recognition of professional qualifications.
What it means for students
Nothing changes yet: these are negotiations, and no funding figures or student targets have been announced. Still, the direction is clear. Study and early-career routes between Canada and Europe are set to widen, which makes degrees in either region more connected.
Key points
- Canada and the EU launched the Alliance for the Future at the Montreal summit (29–30 October 2026).
- Talks start on deeper Canadian participation in Erasmus+; the current period ends in 2027.
- A new youth mobility partnership and recognition of qualifications are on the agenda.
- No timeline, funding or student targets have been announced yet.
Planning a degree that could take you between Europe and Canada? Book a consultation with Study and Work Abroad and we will plan your route, application and visa with you.
Sources
- Canada-EU alliance to expand opportunities for studentsThe PIE News · Nov 3, 2026
- Canada moves to expand participation in European student exchange programCIC News · Oct 30, 2026
Written by the Study and Work Abroad team in our own words from the sources above. Rules change often: before you apply, ask us to check the current rules for your case.
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