The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is tailored to provide youth with temporary work opportunities in Canada.
Participants from more than 30 countries are eligible to obtain an open work permit, enabling them to work for any employer in Canada. This program is designed to foster stronger economic, social, and cultural ties between Canada and its partner nations.
This page offers an in-depth exploration of the benefits and opportunities offered by the IEC program.
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program provides two main options for young individuals seeking to work and travel:
This option is available for Canadian citizens aged 18 to 35. It allows them to embark on work and travel experiences in over 35 countries and territories. The duration of the stay is contingent on the destination’s regulations, with participants able to stay for up to 2 years.
Citizens aged 18 to 35 from partner countries can take part in the IEC program to work and travel in Canada. Similar to the Canadian Youth option, the duration of stay can be up to 2 years, subject to meeting the program’s eligibility criteria.
To be eligible for the IEC Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
It’s important to note that specific age limits and eligibility requirements may vary depending on the candidate’s country of citizenship.
Note: If you are unsure about your eligibility for the IEC program, feel free to contact us for assistance.
Citizens of countries with a bilateral Youth Mobility Arrangement with Canada, aged 18 to 35, may qualify for International Experience Canada (IEC) work permits. These permits are unique as they do not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is typically needed to assess the impact of hiring foreign workers on Canada’s labor market.
The LMIA is a vital labor market test used by the Canadian government to evaluate the potential effects of hiring foreign workers on Canadian employees. However, the IEC program aims to foster Canada’s economic, social, and cultural relationships with participating nations, allowing IEC participants to secure Canadian work permits through specific arrangements.
Through the IEC program, participants can obtain work permits that facilitate travel and work in Canada, promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between nations. This program is a valuable opportunity for young people to gain international work experience while contributing to Canada’s diverse workforce.
Participants in this category receive an open work permit, valid for one to two years, allowing them to work for almost any Canadian employer anywhere in Canada. This category is suitable for individuals without a job offer who wish to work for multiple employers or locations in Canada, or those looking to earn while traveling.
This category offers a chance for citizens of participating countries to work for a Canadian company, gaining valuable international experience. Applicants must have a valid job offer related to their professional development, classified under National Occupation Code (NOC) Skill Type Level 0, A, or B, and intend to work for the same employer during their stay.
Participants in this category, who are enrolled at a post-secondary institution outside of Canada, can intern for Canadian companies to fulfill study requirements. Applicants must have a job offer for a work placement or internship related to their studies and plan to work for the same employer during their stay in Canada. Co-op placements must be arranged before applying.
Country | Working Holiday | Young Professionals | International Co-op | Age Limit |
Andorra | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-30 |
Australia | Up to 24 months | Up to 24 months | Up to 12 months (unless it is the applicant’s second participation since 2015, in which case, 12 months) | 18-35 |
Austria | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 6 months (internship or work placement must be in forestry, agriculture, or tourism) | 18-35 |
Belgium | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-30 |
Chile | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Costa Rica | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Croatia | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Czech Republic | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Denmark | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-35 |
Estonia | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
France* | Up to 24 months | Up to 24 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Germany | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Greece | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Hong Kong | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-30 |
Ireland | Up to 24 months | Up to 24 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Italy | Up to 12 months ** | Up to 12 months ** | Up to 12 months ** | 18-35 |
Japan | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-30 |
Latvia | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Lithuania | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Luxembourg | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-30 |
Mexico | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-29 |
Netherlands | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | N/A | 18-30 |
New Zealand | Up to 23 months | N/A | N/A | 18-35 |
Norway | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Poland | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Portugal | Up to 24 months | Up to 24 months | Up to 24 months | 18-35 |
San Marino | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-35 |
Slovakia | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Slovenia | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
South Korea | Up to 12 months | N/A | N/A | 18-30 |
Spain | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Sweden | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-30 |
Switzerland | N/A | Up to 18 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Taiwan | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
Ukraine | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | Up to 12 months | 18-35 |
United Kingdom | Up to 24 months | N/A | N/A | 18-30 |
Choosing our services ensures that you have a dedicated team of immigration experts on your side. We understand the complexities of the IEC program and other immigration pathways, and we are committed to guiding you through each step of the process. Our personalized approach means that we tailor our services to meet your unique needs, ensuring a smooth and efficient application process. With our extensive knowledge and experience, you can trust us to provide accurate information, professional advice, and the support you need to succeed in your immigration journey.
Our team offers comprehensive support to make your IEC application as straightforward as possible. We start by assessing your eligibility and providing clear guidance on the required documents and steps. We assist in preparing and submitting your application, ensuring that all information is accurate and complete. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and updated, addressing any concerns or questions you may have. Our goal is to make the immigration process stress-free, allowing you to focus on your exciting journey to Canada.
We are here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance with your IEC application, please do not hesitate to reach out. You can contact us via phone, email, or visit our office. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to provide the support and information you need. Let us help you achieve your dream of working and living in Canada.
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