International Experience Canada program is now open

What is the International Experience Canada (IEC) program?

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is a Working Holiday opportunity for young adults between the ages of 18-35 who are interested in gaining international experience by living and working in Canada. Through the IEC program, eligible participants are able to apply for a one-year open work permit that allows them to travel, learn new skills, and immerse themselves in Canadian culture.

This unique program offers the chance to experience Canada like a local while making lifelong friendships with people from around the world. In addition to gaining work experience and the opportunity to travel, participants in the IEC program are able to take advantage of Canada's excellent educational opportunities. This allows them to learn new skills and gain a better understanding of the Canadian way of life while still being able to experience the culture first-hand.

Who can apply for a work permit under the IEC program?

Young professionals and working holiday makers from around the world can take advantage of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This program allows international youth between the ages of 18 to 35 to come to Canada and gain valuable international experience while living and working in our great country. To be eligible, participants must be a citizen of a participating country, have a valid passport, enough money to support themselves, health insurance, and no criminal record. Once accepted into the program, participants will receive a work permit that allows them to stay in Canada for up to two years.

To participate

1. your country or territory of citizenship must have a Youth Mobility Agreement with Canada or

2. you may be able to use a recognized organization

Some countries permit participation just once. Others permit double participation, albeit in separate categories. Because each country is unique, it is essential to determine if you are eligible to apply.

You are only permitted to take part as many times as your nation permits, even if you receive an invitation to apply. An officer will evaluate your eligibility after you submit your application, taking into account any prior participation. Before you submit an application, be sure you have read and comprehended all of the requirements.

When can I apply for the IEC program?

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is now open for international youth aged 18-35 to apply for a work permit. If you’re from a country that has an agreement with Canada, you may be eligible to come to Canada and work for up to two years. On December 19, 2022, the IEC pools opened to allow international youth to create an online profile and submit their applications.

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program offers three categories: Working Holiday, International Co-op (Internship), and Young Professionals. You must meet the eligibility requirements of the category you are applying to. For example, the Working Holiday category requires applicants to be between 18-35 years of age.

The International Co-op (Internship) category requires applicants to be between 18-35 years of age and have a job offer from a Canadian employer.

Lastly, the Young Professionals category requires applicants to be between 18-35 years of age, have at least one year of post-secondary education or training, and have a job offer from a Canadian employer.

Once you have created an online profile and completed all required documents, your application will be processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the type of visa you’re applying for. Make sure to submit your application early as spots can fill up quickly.

It’s important to note that there are fees associated with applying for the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. You may be required to pay the applicable fees to be considered for the program.

If you meet the requirements of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program and you’re ready to start your working holiday in Canada, click here to get in touch to submit your application.

The IEC follows a model of Expression of Interest/Invitation to Apply. Before submitting an application, eligible candidates must receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and a completed International Experience Canada (IEC) profile.

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How do I apply for the IEC program?

Here are the steps to apply for the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program:

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1. Complete the Come to Canada questionnaire and obtain your personal reference code, if eligible.

2. Use this code to create an account online.

3. Finish building your profile in the IEC profile builder.

4. Submit your profile and select the IEC pools in which you wish to participate.

If you receive an Offer to Apply through your account, you will have ten days to either begin your application or decline the invitation. Click the "Start Application" button in your account if you accept to initiate the work permit application procedure.

After clicking "Start Application," you have 20 days, regardless of whether you accept on day 1 or day 10, to complete, pay, and submit the application for a work permit.

Need help in applying for the International Experience Canada(IEC) Program? Hire an authorized paid representative.

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IMMERGITY Immigration Consultant are very experienced with the application process and can help you navigate the system. We will also provide valuable insights and tips on how to increase your chances of success. Get in touch now.

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If you're thinking of hiring a representative, be sure to check that they're authorized by IRCC. You can verify our credentials by clicking here.

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Hiring a representative is not required, but it can be helpful, especially if you're not familiar with the application process. If you decide to hire a representative, be sure to choose someone who you trust and who you feel comfortable working with.