IEC (International Experience Canada)
International Experience Canada (IEC) is a program managed by the Government of Canada that allows young people from select countries to work and travel in Canada for a limited period.
It’s designed to promote cultural exchange and international mobility through three main categories:
Working Holiday – Open work permit for flexible job opportunities across Canada.
Young Professionals – Employer-specific work permit for gaining targeted, career-related experience.
International Co-op (Internship) – For students who want to complete a work placement or internship in their field of study.
Participation is age-restricted (usually 18–30 or 35, depending on your country) and is only available to citizens of countries that have a Youth Mobility Agreement (YMA) with Canada.
IEC is not a permanent residency program, but it can be a valuable stepping stone to gaining Canadian work experience, improving language skills, and building ties that support future immigration applications.
1. Eligibility by Country and Category
Your country of citizenship must have a Youth Mobility Agreement (YMA) with Canada.
If your country doesn’t, some Recognized Organizations (ROs) may help — but spots are limited.
“Participation” only counts if you enter Canada and receive the work permit.
Family members cannot accompany you under IEC — they must apply separately.
2. Application Process: Invitation-Based and Time-Sensitive
You can’t apply directly for an IEC work permit. First, you must create a profile and wait to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Once you accept an ITA, you have 20 days (UTC time zone) to submit your complete application.
Your application must be truthful, complete, and include all work/education history — omissions can lead to refusal or future bans.
After completing the online form, you’ll get a personalized document checklist (typical items include police certificates, résumé, passport, digital photo, and IMM 5707).
Medical exams may be required depending on your job or travel history. If time is tight, proof of a scheduled appointment can be submitted.
Application fees vary by category and may be refundable in some cases (e.g. if the POE letter hasn’t been issued).
You must provide biometrics (photo + fingerprints) within 30 days of receiving your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). Extensions are possible with proof of hardship.
3. IEC Pools: How Invitations Work
You create one profile but may enter multiple pools if eligible.
Invitations are prioritized:
International Co-op
Young Professionals
Working Holiday
ITAs are issued in weekly rounds, and you remain in the pool until selected, removed, or the season ends.
Receiving an ITA does not guarantee a work permit — you still must qualify and prove eligibility.
4. After Applying: Stay Alert and Follow Instructions
Use your UCI and application number to track the status online.
IRCC may request additional documents — you typically have 30 days to respond.
Do not book travel or quit your job until you receive approval and your POE (Port of Entry) letter.
“Wait until your application is approved before you buy a plane ticket…” – IRCC Guidance
5. Port of Entry (POE) Letter: What It Is (and Isn’t)
A POE letter is valid for 12 months and must be presented at the border.
It’s not a work permit and does not guarantee entry — that decision lies with the border officer.
6. Already in Canada? Special Rules Apply (Until Dec 1, 2025)
If you’re in Canada with a valid IEC work permit and receive a new POE letter, you may request your new permit by mail — only if you meet all criteria.
Otherwise, you must exit and re-enter Canada (not via the US or Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon) to activate the new permit.
7. Extensions and Changes: Strictly Limited
No general extensions allowed — only limited exceptions apply:
If the original work offer was shorter than your IEC category allows.
If the expiry date was linked to an old passport or health insurance coverage.
If a medical restriction needs to be removed.
Extensions require a paper application and supporting documents.
Young Professionals/Co-op: Changing employers requires IRCC approval and a new permit request.
Working Holiday participants may change employers freely.
8. Before You Arrive: Final Checklist
Bring proof of funds: at least CAN$2,500 plus enough for a return flight.
(Recent bank statements are required — issued no more than 7 days before departure.)
Health insurance is mandatory and must cover your entire stay, including repatriation.
In Quebec, you may qualify for provincial health insurance, but you still need private coverage for repatriation.
Final Thoughts:
IEC is a valuable opportunity — but the rules are strict, timelines are tight, and mistakes can cost you your chance. Plan carefully, follow all instructions, and don’t take shortcuts.
Conclusion
By partnering with me, you can avoid these common pitfalls and navigate the Express Entry process with confidence, increasing your chances of achieving your Canadian immigration goals.
Warm Regards,
Egidija Benotiene