Canada International Experience.
The International Experience Canada (IEC) 2025 season has officially commenced. The IEC program provides young individuals from countries that have established a youth mobility agreement with Canada the opportunity to live and work in Canada. If you are seeking to acquire work experience, discover new opportunities, or enjoy a working holiday in Canada, the IEC program is an ideal choice for you.
What Is IEC?
The IEC is a program initiated by the Government of Canada that enables young people aged 18 to 35 (30 in certain countries) to gain work experience or enhance their tongue capability in English and French while in Canada.
Working Holiday Permit:
This permit offers the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada without the necessity of securing a job offer prior to application.
Young Professionals Permit:
To be eligible for this IEC permit, applicants must possess a job offer from a Canadian employer before submitting their application.
International Co-op (Internship):
This permit is tailored for students enrolled in post-secondary institutions who wish to undertake an internship or co-op placement in Canada.
IEC Application Process:
Applications for the 2025 IEC season can be submitted at any time; be that as it may, it is fitting to apply early in the season to improve your chances of accepting an welcome to apply (ITA). Once you enter the pool, you will be part of a random selection system, which means immediate selection is not guaranteed.
It is crucial to monitor your account regularly for any invitations to apply (ITA), as the process accelerates following receipt of an ITA. Meeting all deadlines is essential to avoid having to restart the entire application process.
IEC Supporting Documents:
It is essential to compile all necessary documentation for your application. The online platform will create a customized checklist based on the specific stream of IEC you are pursuing. Some of the reports you may be required to yield include:
- Valid Passport (Ensure that your passport is not needed at the time of application)
- CV/Resume
- Police certificates
- Medical examinations
IEC Fees:
The application expense for the IEC is $179.75 CAD, appropriate to all IEC permits. Should you be required to provide biometrics, such as fingerprints and photographs, an additional fee will apply.
IEC Additional Fees:
For the Working Holiday stream, there is a fee of $100 CAD (open work permit fee).
For the Young Professionals and International Co-op streams, there are no additional fees for the applicant. Be that as it may, if appropriate, the boss must pay a compliance charge of $230 CAD.
Submitting Your IEC Application: Deadlines:
Ensure that all forms are thoroughly completed, all required documents are included, and that you have paid all necessary fees. Upon submission, your application will undergo processing. Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), it is imperative to accept it within 20 days. If biometrics are required and you receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), you have 30 days to fulfill this requirement. It is advisable not to delay, as time zone differences may affect your ability to meet the deadline. Upon approval, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction, and you must enter Canada within 12 months of receiving this letter.
