International Experience Canada Visa (IEC)
Work, Learn and Grow with a Canada Working Holiday Visa.
Due to the limited availability of IEC visas, applications are only accepted during specific periods. Your application will be entered into a pool, and if successful, you’ll be invited to proceed with the visa application process. The pool usually opens at the end of the year or the beginning of the next year. You can book your consultation now to make sure you’re ready when the application period begins.
What’s the International Experience Class?
The International Experience Class is a program (Working Holiday Visa), allowing individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 (or 30, depending on the country) to work and travel in Canada for a limited period. It includes three main categories:
- Working Holiday:
- Eligibility: Individuals from partner countries can come to Canada for an extended vacation and work to support their travels.
- Young Professionals:
- Eligibility: For individuals with a job offer in Canada contributing to their professional development.
- International Co-op (Internship):
- Eligibility: Designed for foreign students enrolled in a post-secondary institution with a job offer for a work placement or internship in Canada.
What countries qualify for the IEC working holiday visa?
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Residents of Hong Kong
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
Other International Experience Class (IEC) Categories
Young Professionals
The Young Professionals Work Permit is a type of work permit designed for young professionals who wish to work in Canada for up to two years. It is part of the International Mobility Program.
International Co-op
The International Co-op Work Permit is a work permit that allows international students in Canada to gain work experience related to their studies. It’s designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional experience, providing students with valuable skills and knowledge to increase their job prospects after graduation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is possible to stay in Canada after completing the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. Some programs to consider:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit. You may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit if you have completed a Canadian post-secondary program.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Depending on your specific skills and experience, some Canadian provinces have PNP programs that allow foreign workers to apply for a permanent resident visa.
- Express Entry. You can create a profile in the pool of candidates and potentially receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency, if you meet the eligibility criteria for Express Entry.
Working visas and Working Holiday Visas are both types of temporary visas that allow foreign individuals to work in a specific country, but they have different purposes and requirements.
The exact number of IEC Work Permits issued in 2025 will depend on several factors, such as the government allocation, the demand and the economic conditions.
Yes, you can use a third-party to request an IEC (International Experience Canada) visa. Many immigration consultants and lawyers specialize in assisting individuals with IEC applications.
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Navigating the IEC program can be challenging, but we'll help you every step of the way.
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