Canadian youth aged 18-35 have access to an incredible opportunity to travel the world, with a valid work permit, thanks to International Experience Canada (IEC). In short, IEC is a program for partner countries that makes working travel for youth accessible.
(IEC is a Canadian term for a "working holiday" or "youth mobility" program, if those terms are more familiar to you!)
Where in the world can I go?
Canadian youth have 36 countries to choose from. Here are the partner countries you can consider:
Who can take part in IEC?
International Experience Canada is officially open to Canadian citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 — though some destination countries are restricted to youth 18 to 30 years old. In all cases, you must have a valid Canadian passport.
Some countries may have additional requirements, which are listed on the IEC website, but if you're a Canadian citizen between 18 and 35, with a valid passport, you should definitely explore what IEC has to offer you.
How long can I travel?
Each destination country has its own restrictions. You can travel for up to 24 months, and some countries allow you to participate twice, with a break in between. Check out the webpages for the countries that interest you on the IEC website.
What can I do when travelling?
IEC ensures you have a valid open work permit when you travel, which means you're free to apply for work in your destination country: this is a classic "working holiday." Of course, you can skip the hard stuff and just travel! Having an open work permit doesn't mean you have to work, just that you're able to if you like.
Here are some more specific reasons you might want to travel abroad:
- You can gain international work experience while earning money
- You'll develop life skills while improving your resumé and job prospects
- You'll grow personally and professionally while working on soft skills like confidence and problem-solving
- You can build lifelong connections while working and travelling
- You'll get to experience the world and learn more about other cultures
- You could develop and improve new language skills
- You're young and want to explore the world!
You may have your own reasons, too. After all, travel broadens the mind, and builds character!
I'm interested! What's next?
Be sure to visit IEC's 'getting started' page for full details, but in short, start researching the countries that interest you most! If you need a hand planning, Canada's home to several recognized organizations who can help you. These organizations may charge a fee for their services in exchange for helping you with work permits, flights, accommodations, and other aspects of travel.
How do I apply?
IEC makes applying easy. Here's a short video guide that walks you through the process:
Here's a step-by-step guide to the application process:
And here's a PDF infographic with all the steps on one page!
If you're truly considering a working holiday, don't miss your chance. 18 to 35 may seem like a lot of time, but it goes by fast! Take a chance — take part in this cool program that lets Canadians explore the world.
Bon voyage!
Work and travel abroad with IEC