If you are a young individual interested in living and working in Canada for a year (or two), then International Experience Canada (IEC) may be your ticket! IEC is a program available through bilateral youth mobility agreements between Canada and 33 countries.
How it works
Depending on the country, there are three different work and travel experiences under the IEC program:
- Working Holiday: This program provides eligible candidates with an open work permit allowing them to work for any employer in Canada. Employment does not need to be arranged in advance.
- Young Professionals: This program is designed for those who wish to further their careers by gaining professional work experience in Canada. Participants must have a signed letter of offer or contract from an employer in a skilled occupation before applying.
- International Co-op Internship: This is a program for students enrolled in a post-secondary institution who intend to complete a work placement or internship in Canada as part of their education. Participants must have the work placement or internship in Canada arranged before applying and require a signed letter of offer or contract.
Each IEC category has specific criteria that must be met in order to participate and each country has their own set of eligibility requirements, yearly quotas, and date which the program will open. Generally, eligible applicants must:
- be a citizen of one of the 33 countries that have a recipricol agreement with Canada;
- have a valid passport for the duration of their stay in Canada (the work permit issued will not be longer than the validity of the passport),
- be between the ages of 18 and 30 or 35 at the time of application (the upper age limit depends on the applicant’s country of citizenship);
- have the equivalent of $2,500 CAN upon landing to help cover initial expenses;
- be able to take out health insurance for the duration of their stay;
- be admissible to Canada;
- not be accompanied by dependents; and
- pay the appropriate fees.
Tips to secure a spot
- Be aware: IEC is a very competitive program and spots fill up quickly on a first come first serve basis. Since different countries open their IEC program at different times, it is important to monitor CIC’s website to become aware of the exact time the IEC program opens for your country or speak with an immigration representative for guidance.
- Be prepared: In anticipation of the date, your application should be prepared and ready to submit the exact moment the program opens. Be sure to gather all documents in advance. For example, a police clearance may be required and can take several weeks or months to obtain.