International Experience Canada (IEC) is a program operated by the Government of Canada that allows young people from around the world to travel and work in Canada temporarily. The program aims to promote cultural exchange and facilitate international work experiences for young adults generally from 18 to 35 years old for participating countries.
Participants in the IEC program can gain valuable work experience, explore Canada’s diverse culture, and improve their language skills while living and working in Canada. The program offers three categories:
- Working Holiday: This category allows participants to work and travel in Canada for up to 12 or 24 months, depending on their country of citizenship. Participants are free to take on temporary jobs to support their stay in Canada. (Open work permit)
- Young Professionals: This category is for individuals who want to gain professional work experience in their field of study or occupation. Participants can work for a specific Canadian employer in a skilled position for up to 24 months. A job offer is required for this category.
- International Co-op (Internship): This category is for students who are enrolled at a post-secondary institution and who need to complete a work placement or internship to fulfill their academic requirements. Participants can work for a specific Canadian employer for a period of up to 12 or 24 months, depending on their country of citizenship.
Eligibility for the IEC program varies depending on the participant’s country of citizenship, age, and other factors.
