Working In Canada
International Experience Canada (IEC) provides young people from partner countries with the opportunity to travel and work in Canada for up to 2 years.
International Experience Canada (IEC) Program
#IEC Program
- Eligibility: Typically available for youth from countries with agreements with Canada. Check the IEC website for specific country eligibility.
- Become a Candidate: Create a profile in the IEC pool and wait for an invitation to apply.
- What to Do After Being in the Pool: If selected, follow the instructions to apply for a work permit and prepare to travel to Canada.

1. Working Holiday
- Eligibility:
- No Job Offer Required: Ideal if you don’t have a job offer before arriving in Canada.
- Work Flexibility: Allows you to work for multiple employers and in various locations across Canada.
- Purpose: Designed for those who want to earn money while traveling.
- Work Permit:
- Type: Open Work Permit.
- Flexibility: Work for almost any employer in Canada (exceptions may apply).
- Medical Exam: Some jobs may require a medical exam.
2. Young Professionals
- Eligibility:
- Job Offer Required: You need a job offer in Canada that is related to your professional development.
- Employment Details: You’ll work for the same employer in the same location.
- Job Classification: The job must be classified under TEER (Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3. TEER 4 jobs may qualify if they are in your field of study.
- Work Permit:
- Type: Employer-Specific Work Permit.
- Requirements: Job must be paid and not self-employed.
- Documents: Submit your post-secondary diploma, certificate, or degree (translated into English or French).
3. International Co-op (Internship)
- Eligibility:
- Student Status: You need a job offer in Canada that is related to your professional development.
- Job Offer Required: You need a job offer for an internship or work placement in Canada that is necessary for completing your studies.
- Employment Details: You’ll work for the same employer in the same location.
- Work Permit:
- Type: Employer-Specific Work Permit.
- Internship Link: The internship must be directly related to your field of study.
- Wages and Standards: Wages and labor standards must comply with the labor laws of the province or territory. Whether the internship is paid depends on local labor laws.

Applying for IEC
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements for the specific IEC category you wish to apply for.
- Create a Profile: Create and submit your profile through the IEC online system.
- Receive an Invitation: If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the work permit.
- Apply for Work Permit: Follow instructions to apply for your work permit, providing necessary documents and paying fees.
Summary
The IEC program offers a valuable opportunity for young people from partner countries to gain work experience in Canada while traveling. By choosing the right category—Working Holiday, Young Professionals, or International Co-op (Internship)—you can tailor your experience to fit your career goals and interests. Always ensure that your employer adheres to Canadian labor laws and make use of available resources for a smooth experience.
In Canada, foreign nationals can work under the two types of work permits for Canada!
Employer-Specific Work Permit
Details:
- Specificity: Allows you to work for a designated employer under the terms specified in your permit.
- Conditions: Includes details like:
- The name of the employer
- Duration of employment
- Work location (if specified)
Requirements:
- Employment Contract: Your employer must provide you with a copy of your employment contract.
- LMIA or Offer of Employment Number:
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): A document from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) indicating that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
- Offer of Employment Number: For LMIA-exempt positions, your employer must get this number using the Employer Portal.
- The name of the employer
- Duration of employment
- Work location (if specified)

Open Work Permit

Details:
- Specificity: Allows you to work for a designated employer under the terms specified in your permit.
- Conditions: Includes details like:
- The name of the employer
- Duration of employment
- Work location (if specified)
Requirements:
- Employment Contract: Your employer must provide you with a copy of your employment contract.
- LMIA or Offer of Employment Number:
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): A document from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) indicating that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
- Offer of Employment Number: For LMIA-exempt positions, your employer must get this number using the Employer Portal.
- The name of the employer
- Duration of employment
- Work location (if specified)
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