International Experience Canada

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a program designed to allow youth the opportunity to work in Canada for temporary periods.
Citizens of countries with a bilateral youth mobility arrangement with Canada who are between 18 and 35 years old may be eligible for IEC work permits.
The IEC program is composed of three categories:
• Working Holiday
• Young Professionals
• International Co-op
Working Holiday
Participants in this program can receive an open work permit, valid for one to two years. Open work permits allow participants to work anywhere in Canada for almost any Canadian employer. Nationals of some countries may be allowed to stay in Canada for more or less than one year.
Young Professionals
Under this program, citizens of participating countries can gain valuable international experience by working for a Canadian company. A signed job offer letter or contract of employment with a Canadian employer related to the applicant’s professional development is required before applying.The job offered must be classified as a National Occupation Code (NOC) Skill Type Level 0, A, or B.
International Co-op
This program allows citizens of participating countries who are enrolled at a post-secondary institution in their country of citizenship to spend a period of time interning for Canadian companies. Participants must arrange co-op placements with Canadian employers before applying. Applicants must be registered students for the duration of the internship.

IEC program changes

Some significant changes to the IEC program and its sub-categories came into effect for the 2015/16 season. These changes will continue for the 2017 season. In short, the program has moved from a first-come, first-served model to an Expression of Interest/Invitation to Apply model. Eligible candidates can create an IEC profile, but must receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) before they may submit an application.