International Experience Canada (IEC)

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a popular work permit program designed to help young adults from partner countries gain valuable international work experience while exploring life in Canada. Operating under the broader Open Work Permits category, IEC supports cultural exchange and youth mobility, enabling participants to live and work in Canada temporarily without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

IEC is open to citizens of more than 30 countries that have bilateral youth mobility agreements with Canada. To be eligible, applicants must typically be between 18 and 35 years old (age limits vary by country), hold a valid passport, and meet the program-specific requirements of their home country.

IEC includes three distinct streams:

• Working Holiday Program, which offers an open work permit for flexible employment across Canada. This is ideal for those who want to fund their travels with temporary work. Learn more about the Working Holiday Program.
  
  
• Young Professionals, which provides employer-specific work permits for individuals with a job offer related to their professional development.
  
  
• International Co-op (Internship), which allows students to gain relevant work experience related to their field of study through an employer-specific permit.
  
  

IEC participants are selected through pools and rounds of invitations. Once invited to apply, they must complete biometrics, pay processing fees, and submit all required documentation. Successful applicants receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and must present it upon arrival in Canada to receive their work permit.

This program offers a great opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, improve language skills, and build professional networks, all while immersing in a multicultural society. It can also be a stepping stone to longer-term immigration pathways, including permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.

Whether you’re aiming to travel, work, or build your resume abroad, IEC offers a flexible and accessible entry point into the Canadian job market and lifestyle.

At RightWay Canada, we provide step-by-step support to help you navigate the IEC process—from verifying eligibility and selecting the right stream to preparing a complete application.

Book a consultation with our expert immigration advisors to explore your eligibility for the International Experience Canada program and begin your journey to living and working in Canada.