International Experience Canada (IEC) is a program that allows Canadian youth to go abroad and experience other cultures while also giving them the chance to live and work in foreign countries. Foreign nationals who succeed in one of the IEC programs will be eligible to apply for a Canadian work permit without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). IEC authorizes a temporary stay in Canada under the condition of securing work permits for up to one year.

These work permits are approved through a draw system. All the foreign nationals who submit IEC’s are not selected for the program. The chances of success of program depend on the quota for each program and country.

The IEC operates 3 separate programs which are as follows:

Working Holiday Visa: This visa allows international workers to work for any employer they choose, while travelling in Canada.

Young Professionals: This program allows international professionals to obtain Canadian work experience by working with a Canadian employer.

International Co-op (Internship): The International Co-op Internship Program (ICIP) offers international students a chance to complete an internship or work placement in Canada as part of their requirements for post- secondary education.

Eligibility Criteria for IEC Program:

• Age: Between 18 to 30 (Maximum 35)
• Your country must have an agreement with the Canadian government, that will allow you to apply for work permit

The eligibility criteria, application and process vary program to program and country to country.

Do you need assistance with your application in Canada?

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