International Experience Canada (IEC): Working Holiday, Young Professionals and Co-op

This unique program offers young adults from around the world the opportunity to live, work, and travel in Canada for up to two years. Whether you’re looking to gain professional experience, enhance your language skills, or simply explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities of Canada, IEC has a pathway for you.

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Canada is a land of incredible opportunities and experiences and to allow youth from other countries to experience what Canada has to offer, the International Experience Class Canada program was created. This program is specifically for those between age 18 and 30 (or 35 for certain countries of citizenship) and must be a passport holder of one of the 34 countries with the bilateral Youth Mobility Arrangement with Canada.

Some countries may have differing requirements, but in addition to the requirements noted above, those interested in the IEC program must:

Have a valid passport for the duration of your stay.
Have the equivalent of $2,500 Canadian dollars upon arrival.
Be able to arrange health insurance prior to the arrival to last for the duration of the stay.
Be admissible to Canada and not have any dependents accompanying them.
Have a round-trip ticket or funds to purchase a return ticket for the end of the stay.
Pay the appropriate fees for the IEC requirements.

Plus, because IEC works on a model of Expression of Interest, then Invitation to Apply, candidates must create their IEC profile (by completing the Come to Canada questionnaire) and receive an Invitation to Apply before submitting an application.

IEC has three separate categories:

Working Holiday provides an open work period for anywhere in Canada for almost any Canadian employer.

Young Professionals allow for international experience when working with a Canadian company, but that Canadian employer must provide a signed job offer or letter of contract of employment for a job classified as NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 in the National Occupation Code before applying.

International Co-op provides the opportunity for an internship with a Canadian company. Like the Young Professionals category, this arrangement must be confirmed before applying.

Not all countries have the same rules for the IEC program. In fact there are a number of different time frames and acceptable categories depending on which country the individual has a passport from. We can help you determine if you’re eligible for the IEC program and can help submit your Expression of Interest if this program is the right fit.