Canada

The International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday Visa allows young people from eligible countries to work and travel in Canada for up to three years. This guide is designed to help you through the entire process, start to finish. Here you will find the best information to ensure a successful application. 


Are you Eligible…

Age

18-35 years old (inclusive of 35), though the upper age limit is less strict.

Citizenship

Check to see if you are a citizen of a country that has a youth mobility agreement with Canada.

Please check Canada.ca to find out which countries are eligible

Passport

A valid passport for the duration of your stay in Canada. So make sure to check the expiration date on your passport. 

Funds

In Canada it’s mandatory to show proof of sufficient funds to cover initial expenses (usually CAD 2,500).

Insurance

You must show proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay or you will not be admitted on your visa. 

Eligibility

No criminal record and you must be admissible to Canada.

The Application Process

  • Create a Profile

    Go to the IEC website - Create a profile in the "Come to Canada" tool to determine your eligibility. If eligible, you will be entered into a pool of candidates for your country and category.

  • Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

    Invitations to Apply are issued randomly in rounds. Monitor your email and account regularly for an ITA. Once you receive an ITA, you have 10 days to accept it. - Make sure to be acutely aware of that email as if you do not respond within the 10 day time frame then your application will be voided and you’ll have to start the whole process again.

  • Submit Your Application

    After accepting the ITA, you have 20 days to complete and submit your application. - Provide necessary documents - Pay the participation fee (CAD 156) and open work permit holder fee (CAD 100) ~ (£145).

  • Biometrics

    After submitting your application, you will receive a biometrics instruction letter. Visit a designated biometric collection service point to provide fingerprints and a photo - Make sure to read everything in the document that explains the biometric process as they require a hard copy of all of your documents and they will often not compromise.

  • Wait for Processing

    Processing times vary, but typically take around 8 weeks. But they can be as quick as 2 weeks. This is why it’s so important to leave plenty of time as to not increase stress around an already difficult process - You can check the status of your application online. Check this regularly as it often contains messages which might query your application.

  • Receive Port of Entry (POE)

    If approved, you will receive a POE letter. This letter is not your work permit, but you need to present it upon arrival in Canada.

Arriving in Canada

1. Port of Entry:

   – Present your POE letter, passport, proof of funds, health insurance, and any other required documents to the immigration officer.

   – The officer will issue your work permit.

  • also make sure you have all of your documents with you just in case they need to check them. Also ensure to bring your police certificate and a hard copy of all of your insurance.

2. Social Insurance Number (SIN):

   – Apply for a SIN at a Service Canada office. This number is required for working in Canada.

  • This is also important to get in order to get a bank account
  • For whistler, the closest Service Canada Office is located in Squamish which is 1 stop on the sea2sky bus to Vancouver.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Give yourself plenty of time: The process can be lengthy, so start your application well in advance.

2. Get all of your documents ready and organised: Ensure all documents are up-to-date and meet the requirements.

3. Turn email notifications on: Invitations and instructions are sent via email. Respond promptly to any requests.

4. Stay Informed: Keep up with any changes to the IEC program or requirements for your country.