IEC (International Experience Canada)
IEC, International Experience Canada, is a program that gives young people from countries with youth mobility agreements with Canada a temporary work permit, usually for 12 to 24 months.
The three categories
- Working Holiday: an open work permit to work for almost any employer.
- Young Professionals: an employer-specific permit for professional work that builds your career.
- International Co-op (Internship): an employer-specific permit for students doing a required work placement.
Age limits are 18 to 30 or 18 to 35, depending on your country. You create a profile, enter the pool, and wait for a random invitation. Quotas and rules vary by country, so check the IEC page for yours.
IEC work in a skilled job can count toward the CEC. See our IEC working holiday page.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I have to be for IEC?
Between 18 and 30 or 35, depending on your country of citizenship.
Can I apply for IEC more than once?
Some countries allow more than one participation; others allow only one.
Is IEC open to US citizens?
US citizens can participate through a recognized organization.
Official sources
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.