International Experience Canada (IEC)

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a series of programs that allows youngsters from the
participating countries in participating countries to visit Canada to work and live for a short period of
time. It provides the opportunity for youngsters to work and travel in Canada over a maximum of
two years. There are three main types of work and travel experiences that are available:

a. Working Holiday
b. Young Professionals
c. International Co-op (internship.

What is the eligibility criteria for all the types individually?

A. Working Holiday
You belong in this category if-
>> You have received no employment offer.
>> You desire employment with many employers in Canada.
>> You wish to work in many places
>> You want to make some money so you can go on vacation.

An open work permit is the kind of work authorization you receive for a working holiday. You may
use this to work for virtually any company in Canada (some exceptions apply). Some occupations
need a medical check before you can apply.

B. Young Professionals
You qualify for this category if you:
>> Have a job offer in Canada that advances your career; and
>> Plan to work for the same company in the same area throughout your time in Canada.
This type of labour must be paid or salary-based and not be considered self-employment.
You receive an employer-specific work permit if you fall under the Young Professionals category.
Your employer is required to adhere to all labour regulations, including minimum wage standards, in
the province or territory where you want to work.

C. International Co-op (internship)
This category is for you if you meet the following criteria:
>> You are a student enrolled in a post-secondary institution;
>> You have a job offer for an internship or work placement in Canada;
>> You must accept the offer in order to complete your studies; and
>> You will work for the exact company within the same area throughout your reside in Canada.
You will receive an employer-specific work visa if you fall under the international co-op (internship)
category. Your proposed internship in Canada must be closely related to your area of study.

Standards and salary must adhere to the province’s labour regulations, where you will be working.
Whether or not an internship must be compensated will depend on the province’s or territory’s
labour legislation.