Comprehensive instructions on how to apply for an IEC Working Holiday Visa in Canada are provided on this page.
The 2024 IEC season concluded on October 23, 2024. Use our free Canadian Immigration Quiz to determine your eligibility for the 2025 IEC program.
Are you looking to apply for a 2025 Working Holiday Visa to Canada? This guide provides updated information about work permits for International Experience Canada (IEC), often referred to as Canada Working Holiday Visas.
What is the IEC Working Holiday Visa in Canada?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young individuals from over 30 countries to live and work in Canada through temporary work permits. These permits are valid for 12 to 24 months, depending on your country of citizenship.
Applicants must first create a profile to indicate their interest in obtaining a Working Holiday Visa. If selected, candidates are invited to complete their work permit application, provided they meet eligibility criteria and availability requirements.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa in Canada?
- Citizens of countries that have bilateral youth mobility agreements with Canada are eligible.
- A full list of participating countries and the types of permits offered can be found on the IRCC website.
How to Obtain a Working Holiday Visa in Canada
- Create a Profile: Build a profile on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Join a Pool: Based on your country and visa type, join one or more “pools.” For example:
- Ireland: Young Professionals
- Australia: Working Holiday
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): Candidates are selected at regular intervals via random draws and invited to submit a work permit application until slots are filled.
- Submit Application: After receiving an ITA, complete your application within 20 days, including paying fees and providing necessary documents like police certificates and medical exams.
Tip: Apply as soon as your country’s pool opens to maximize your chances of selection.
Requirements for a Working Holiday Visa
- Be a citizen of one of the 35 countries participating in the IEC program or apply through an accredited agency if from the USA.
- Hold a valid passport for the entire duration of your stay.
- Be aged 18-30 or 18-35, depending on your country.
- Show proof of at least CAD $2,500 for startup costs.
- Purchase health insurance covering your entire stay.
- Hold a round-trip ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.
- Pay the necessary fees.
- Have no dependents.
Application Steps
Step 1: Apply to IEC Canada
- Complete the Come to Canada questionnaire to determine eligibility.
- Create an IEC profile and select your pool(s).
- Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA). If selected, you have 10 days to accept or decline the invitation.
Step 2: Submit a Work Permit Application
- Accept the ITA and pay the fees.
- Processing Fee: CAD $161
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD $100
- Biometrics Fee (if required): CAD $85
- Upload all requested documents, including proof of health insurance and police/medical certificates.
- Submit your application.
Once approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Introduction (LOI) to present at a Canadian Port of Entry (POE).
FAQs
What Are the Chances of Getting a Work Permit?
The odds vary by country, as each country has different quotas and demand levels. The more applicants in a pool relative to available slots, the lower the chances of selection.
How Can I Improve My Chances?
- Enter the pool as soon as it opens to maximize your exposure to multiple draws.
- Explore additional IEC categories, such as Young Professionals, to increase your chances of securing a permit.
What is the Age Requirement?
The age limit is 18-30 or 18-35, depending on your country of citizenship.
Is Proof of Funds Required?
Yes, applicants must show proof of at least CAD $2,500. This can be demonstrated with a bank statement (no older than seven days) upon entry into Canada.
What is the Cost of a Working Holiday Visa?
- Joining the IEC pool is free.
- If selected, the total fee is CAD $261, which includes the processing fee and open work permit holder fee. A biometrics fee of CAD $85 may also apply.
What Documents Are Required?
- Valid passport
- Police certificate(s)
- Medical examination results (if applicable)
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of funds (CAD $2,500 minimum)
- Round-trip ticket or funds for one
2025 IEC Quota
In 2024, approximately 95,000-100,000 IEC permits were issued. A similar or slightly higher number is expected for 2025, continuing the annual trend of increases.