International Experience Canada (IEC)
Work and Travel in Canada as a Young Professional
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young people from partner countries to live, work, and explore Canada. Whether you want to gain international work experience, complete an internship, or travel while working to fund your adventure, IEC provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Participants can receive an open or employer-specific work permit depending on the category, with stays of up to 2 years (depending on your country of citizenship).
Why Choose the IEC Program?
- Work + Travel: Earn money while exploring Canada’s cities, culture, and natural beauty.
- Professional Growth: Gain Canadian work experience to boost your career.
- Flexibility: Options available whether you have a job offer or not.
- Youth Mobility: Designed exclusively for young adults (18–35, depending on your country).
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in IEC, you must:
- Be a citizen of a country that has a youth mobility agreement with Canada OR apply through a Recognized Organization (RO).
- Be 18 to 35 years old (some countries set the limit at 30).
- Have a valid passport for the duration of your stay.
- Show proof of funds (minimum CAD $2,500) to cover initial expenses.
- Hold health insurance for the full length of your stay.
- Be admissible to Canada (medical, criminal, and security checks may apply).
- Have a round-trip ticket or sufficient funds to buy one at the end of your stay.
IEC Program Categories
IEC has three different streams. Which one is right for you depends on your background, goals, and your country’s agreement with Canada.
1. Working Holiday
Who it’s for
- Youth who don’t yet have a job offer but want the freedom to explore opportunities.
- Adventurers who want to travel across Canada while funding their trip with temporary work.
- Those interested in experiencing different jobs, industries, and cities.
Key Benefits
- No job offer required before applying.
- Flexibility to change jobs and locations during your stay.
- A perfect option if your priority is exploring Canada’s culture and lifestyle while gaining casual or seasonal work experience.
2. Young Professionals
Work Permit Type → Employer-Specific Work Permit (you must work for the employer named on your permit).
Who it’s for
- Young professionals who already have a job offer in Canada.
- People looking to advance their careers with meaningful Canadian work experience.
- Individuals who want to grow professionally in their field of study or expertise.
Requirements
- You need a signed job offer or contract from a Canadian employer.
- The job must be paid and not self-employed.
- Employment usually must fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (management, professional, or technical jobs).
- TEER 4 may be eligible if it directly relates to your studies.
Why choose this stream?
- Gain career-related Canadian experience that strengthens your résumé.
- Build long-term professional connections in Canada.
- Improve your chances for future immigration pathways like Express Entry.
3. International Co-op (Internship)
Work Permit Type → Employer-Specific Work Permit.
Who it’s for
- Post-secondary students who need an internship or work placement in Canada as part of their academic program.
- Youth eager to gain hands-on international experience in their field of study.
Requirements
- You must be currently enrolled at a post-secondary institution in your country.
- You need a confirmed job offer for an internship that is directly related to your program.
- You must work for the same employer in the same location for the duration of your stay.
- Wages and conditions must meet Canadian labour standards.
Why choose this stream?
- Complete your academic requirements while experiencing life in Canada.
- Gain valuable international work experience in your profession.
- Stand out to future employers in both Canada and your home country.
You can sum up with a table (example here)
| Category | Work Permit Type | Job Offer Required? | Who It’s For | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Working Holiday | Open Work Permit | ❌ No | Youth who want to travel and work casually across Canada; flexible jobs and locations | Up to 24 months (varies by country) |
| Young Professionals | Employer-Specific Work Permit | ✅ Yes | Professionals with a job offer in Canada, looking for career-related experience | Up to 24 months (varies by country) |
| International Co-op | Employer-Specific Work Permit | ✅ Yes (internship) | Students who need an internship/work placement in Canada to complete their studies | Duration of internship (up to 12–24 months) |
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your country’s participation and the category available.
- Create an IEC Profile: Submit your details online and join the candidate pool.
- Receive an Invitation: If selected, you’ll get an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Apply for a Work Permit: Submit your documents, pay fees, and complete biometrics if required.
- Receive Port of Entry (POE) Letter: Present this letter upon arrival in Canada to obtain your work permit.
Processing Time: Most applications are processed within ~8 weeks after submitting a complete work permit application.
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds (min. CAD $2,500)
- Health insurance for your stay
- Police certificate(s)
- Medical exam (if required)
- Job offer letter/contract (for Young Professionals & Co-op)
- Biometrics
How We Support You
- Eligibility Check: We assess your chances before you enter the pool.
- Step-by-Step Guidance: From creating your profile to preparing your documents.
- Job Offer Support: Assistance in securing eligible employment (for Young Professionals & Co-op).
- Peace of Mind: Ensure compliance with all IEC requirements to avoid refusal or delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Up to 24 months, depending on your country’s agreement with Canada.
Yes. Many countries allow two participations under different categories.
Not always. A job offer is only required for Young Professionals and International Co-op categories.
You must show at least CAD $2,500 upon arrival to support your initial expenses.
No. IEC participants cannot bring dependents under this program.
Take the Next Step
Ready to live, work, and explore Canada under the IEC program?
- Book Your Consultation Today – Speak with a licensed consultant.
- Get a Free Eligibility Assessment – Find out if you qualify for IEC.