Who the International Experience Canada (IEC) is for
#- Youth applicants from participating countries
- Applicants seeking short-term work experience in Canada
- Students applying for Co-op placements in Canada
Eligibility nuances
#Eligibility varies by country agreement, category, and annual quotas.
Some categories require a job offer before you apply.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Eligibility under your country’s IEC agreement
- Invitation to apply from an IEC pool
- Valid passport for the intended stay
- Proof of funds and insurance coverage (if required at entry)
- Biometrics if required for your nationality
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- Passport and proof of funds
- Job offer details (Young Professionals or Co-op)
- Proof of health insurance coverage for your stay (if required)
- Police certificates, biometrics, and medicals if required
Comparing options? Review Employer-Specific Work Permit and Study Permit before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Create an IEC profile and enter the appropriate pool.
- Receive an invitation and submit the full application.
- Complete biometrics and medicals if requested.
- Receive the port of entry letter and travel to Canada.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Employer-Specific Work Permit and Study Permit before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Invitation rounds and processing times vary by category and country.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Entering the wrong pool or category
- Missing the invitation deadline
- Insufficient passport validity for the intended stay
- Not meeting insurance requirements at the port of entry
Common misconceptions
#- An IEC profile guarantees an invitation.
- Working Holiday requires a job offer.
- IEC permits can be renewed indefinitely.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
What are the IEC categories?
IEC includes Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op (Internship) categories.
Do I need a job offer for IEC?
Working Holiday typically does not require a job offer, but Young Professionals and Co-op usually do.
Is IEC eligibility based on age or nationality?
Yes. Eligibility depends on your nationality, age range, and the bilateral agreement with Canada.
How long is an IEC work permit valid?
Validity depends on your country’s agreement and the category. Check IRCC for your specific limit.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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