International Experience Canada (IEC) is an exceptional program designed to enable young people from different countries to work and travel in Canada. This program offers a unique opportunity to gain professional experience while exploring one of the most beautiful countries in the world. If you're between the ages of 18 and 35 and dream of discovering the Rocky Mountains, cosmopolitan cities like Vancouver or Montreal, while earning an income, EIC could be for you.
In this guide, we present everything you need to know about the International Experience Canada program, the eligibility criteria, the different categories, and tips on how to make the most of your stay.
International Experience Canada (IEC) is an international mobility program set up by the Canadian government for young adults from various countries. It is aimed primarily at young people between the ages of 18 and 35 (depending on their country of origin), enabling them to travel, work and live in Canada for a limited time. This program is particularly popular with young people who want to experience an immersive foreign environment and improve their linguistic, professional and personal skills.
The EIC program comprises three main categories:
- The Working Holiday Permit (WHP ): This permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with the freedom to travel the country. This is the most flexible category of the EIC program. Find out more about our Real Step programs in Canada via this link.
- The International Co-op Internship: This category is designed for students wishing to do an internship in Canada in connection with their studies, for valuable work experience.
- The "Young Professionals": This permit is designed for young people wishing to obtain a specific job in Canada as part of their professional career.
Canada is renowned for its quality of life, cultural diversity and economic dynamism. By participating in EIC, you'll have the opportunity to develop skills that are in demand on the international job market, whether in fields such as technology, services, finance or hospitality. Work experience in Canada is also highly regarded by employers around the world, and you can build a strong international network.
Canada is an ideal destination for those wishing to immerse themselves in a bilingual (French and English) culture. Canadian cities like Montreal and Toronto are multicultural crossroads where you can meet people from all over the world. This will enable you to perfect your language skills while exploring a new culture.
Canada is famous for its spectacular nature, from the **Rocky Mountains** to endless forests, breathtaking national parks and crystal-clear lakes. If you're passionate about outdoor activities like skiing, hiking or kayaking, your free time will be filled with adventures in a breathtaking natural environment.
One of the essential criteria for participating in International Experience Canada is age. You must be between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive), although some countries have a maximum age limit of 30. For example, for French citizens, the program is open up to the age of 35, while for young people from other countries such as the UK or Ireland, the limit is 30.
The EIC is based on bilateral agreements between Canada and several other countries. Citizens of over 30 partner countries are eligible for this program, including those from France, Belgium, Australia, the UK, Germany, and many others. Each country has a different quota each year, so it's essential to keep an eye on openings to make sure you don't miss out.
In addition to age and nationality, other conditions must be met to take part in the EIC:
- Valid passport: You must have a valid passport for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
- Proof of funds: You must prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your needs at the beginning of your stay (generally around CAD 2,500).
- Health insurance: You must take out health insurance covering the entire duration of your stay. This insurance must include coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization and repatriation.
- Return ticket : You must either present a return ticket, or prove that you have the necessary funds to purchase one before the end of your stay.
The first step in obtaining your EIC is to create an online account on the Canadian immigration website. You'll need to provide your personal information and answer an eligibility questionnaire to determine if you're eligible.
If you are eligible, you will be placed in the pool of candidates for the EIC program in your country. These pools are used to draw candidates at random as places become available.
Once you have been selected from the pool, you will receive an invitation to apply. You then have 10 days to accept this invitation and begin submitting your complete application.
Once you have accepted the invitation, you have 20 days to submit your complete application for a work permit. You will need to provide various documents, including:
- Valid passport
- Recent passport photo
- Proof of funds
- Medical certificate, if required
- Proof of health insurance
Once your file has been submitted and reviewed by the Canadian authorities, you will receive your Letter of Introduction if your application is accepted. This letter will enable you to obtain your work permit when you arrive in Canada. Your International Experience Canada (IEC) can now begin.
With the EIC, you can work in almost any sector in Canada. Here are some of the most popular sectors:
- Tourism and hospitality : Ski resorts, hotels and restaurants are often looking for young workers, especially in tourist destinations like Whistler, Banff and Jasper.
- Construction and manual trades: The construction sector is booming in Canada, especially in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
- Agriculture and harvesting: Canadian farms regularly recruit seasonal workers, especially for the summer fruit harvest.
- Information technology: If you have skills in the field of technology, startups and technology companies in Canada, particularly in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, offer many opportunities.
Major Canadian cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Ottawa are particularly attractive to young expatriates. They offer a high quality of life, job opportunities and a safe, multicultural environment. However, the cost of living can vary considerably from one region to another. Montreal, for example, is more affordable than Vancouver or Toronto.
The cost of living in Canada can be high, especially in the big cities. It's important to manage your budget, especially when it comes to housing. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto or Vancouver can reach over 1,500 CAD per month, while cities like Montreal or Quebec City are more affordable.
Public transport is well-developed in the major cities, making it easy for people on holiday to get around. Prices range from CAD 3 for a single ticket to around CAD 100 for a monthly pass.
Canada is recognized as one of the safest countries in the world. The Canadian healthcare system is excellent, but as an EIC permit holder, you must take out insurance for the duration of your stay.
International Experience Canada (IEC) is an exceptional opportunity for young adults wishing to combine travel and work in a country renowned for its quality of life, economic dynamism and incredible landscapes. Whether you opt for a Working Holiday Permit (WHP), an International Co-op Internship, or a Young Professionals Program, this program will provide you with an enriching and unforgettable experience. With the right preparation, a spirit of adventure and a work permit in your pocket, you're ready to explore Canada and enrich your personal and professional life.
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