Experiencing A Canadian Working Holiday Has Just Got Easier (New IEC Updates)

Why Do A Working Holiday In Canada?

Canada has become the ultimate destination for working holiday travellers seeking year-round adventures, vibrant cities, and attractive salaries. Beyond the appeal of Tim Horton’s and Canada’s delicious national dish—fries smothered in cheese and gravy—Canada is renowned for its exceptional work-life balance.

Imagine surfing in the morning before heading to work, skiing under the stars after your shift, and spending weekends exploring stunning mountains, pristine beaches, and serene lakes. Getting outdoors is a given when living in Canada!

Ready for the good news? The 2024 changes to the IEC Working Holiday Visa are making it way easier and more exciting for UK visitors:

• Wider Age Range: If you’re between 18 and 35 inclusive, you’re now eligible to apply under the IEC working holiday category (previously, it was capped at 30).
• Longer Stay: As a UK citizen, you can now stay in Canada for up to three years! The first stint can be up to 24 months, and you can extend it to another 12 months. That’s three whole years of exploring and working in Canada!

Is this the year for you to live, work, and play in Canada?

Working Holiday (IEC) Visa For Canada

To work in Canada, you need a work permit from International Experience Canada (IEC), part of the Canadian Government’s immigration and citizenship department. A limited number of permits are available yearly, so applications can’t be made year-round. When you apply, your name is entered into a pool, and if selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for your visa officially. The pool typically opens at the end of the year or the beginning of the following year.

The annual opening date for the IEC visa selection pool can vary each year. The 2024 IEC visa pools opened on December 11th and are expected to close around September/October 24.

IEC is the perfect option for anyone wanting to experience life in Canada before committing to a full work permit. Unlike other work visas, you do not need a job offer before applying for a working holiday permit.

IEC Eligibility

The IEC work permits have recently expanded its eligibility criteria for British citizens. Do you now fit the working holiday visa requirements?

• Age Range: Between 18 and 35 years old.
• Visa Cost: CAD $272
• Biometrics appointment cost: $85
• Support funds required: $2,500
• No criminal convictions in the past five years.

This working holiday permit is valid for 24 months for the first stint, and then UK citizens can extend it for another 12 months. That’s three whole years of exploring and working in Canada!

3 Types of IEC Visa Categories

Working Holiday

• Open Work Permit: This permit is valid for 24 months (for UK citizens) and allows participants to work anywhere in Canada for almost any employer.
• Purpose: Ideal for those who want to explore Canada while working. You can work for multiple employers as you travel around the country.

Young Professionals

• Employer-Specific Work Permit: Allows participants to gain professional experience with a Canadian employer.
• Job Requirements: Must be in a National Occupation Classification (NOC) Skill Level 0, A, or B position. You need proof of the job offer when applying for this visa.
• Goal: Professional development through Canadian work experience.

International Co-op (Internship)

• Employer-Specific Work Permit: This is for students from participating countries enrolled in post-secondary institutions.
• Co-op Placements: Must be arranged with Canadian employers before applying.
• Objective: To gain valuable work experience through internships in Canada.

IEC Application Process

The IEC application process is just as easy as it was before.

Step 1: Check You Are Eligible

Before you begin the process, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the country of citizenship. For UK applicants, you must be aged between 18 and 35, have no criminal record, and have proof of funds to support your return journey.

Next, you must create an online profile with the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). Then, follow the steps to ‘Apply To Come To Canada’.

Step 2: Profile Submission and Work Permit Application

Once you have created your IRCC profile, you can add yourself to the IEC pool for your country of residence. You can enter one or more pools based on your country and work permit category (for example, if you apply for Young Professionals).

Selections are made at regular intervals. If you receive the invitation to apply, you will have ten days to complete the application. You have 20 days to complete the application process and make relevant payments.

The IEC fee is CAN$172, and the Working Holiday open work permit holder fee is CAN$100. Both are payable online through your IRCC account with a credit/debit card. At this stage, you will also need to upload all supporting documents.

Step 3: Biometrics

Biometrics may be required for your visa. The IRCC will inform you via letter after your application. You will have 30 days to submit biometrics from an approved visa application centre (VAC), which will cost an additional CAN$85.

Step 4: IEC Work Permit Assessment

The IEC work permit assessment can take up to 56 days. You may be asked for additional documents or information to support your profile.

You will receive a port of entry letter from the IRCC when accepted. Ensure you travel with this along with your passport, proof of minimum funds of CAN$2,500, and your health insurance policy details.

Time to pack and get planning! Canada is waiting!

Travel Insurance For Canada Working Holiday Visa

You need travel insurance. Having the correct policy is crucial for those participating in the IEC program. Your insurance must cover:

• Medical Care
• Hospitalisation, and;
• Repatriation (returning you to your country in the event of severe illness, injury or death).

Canadian healthcare is not free and can be costly! The Canadian government checks that you have insurance when arriving in the country on a working holiday visa.

You need a specialised policy that will also cover you in work environments. Our Working Holiday Insurance is the perfect option. It covers many jobs, giving you flexibility in the ‘Work Pack’ add-ons. The policy can cover your being away from the UK for up to 2 years and has the comprehensive benefits of standard travel insurance while covering your work.

We cover various job sectors, from hospitality to ski lift operators, but unfortunately, we do not cover skiing instructors. Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover potential risks and enjoy a worry-free experience in Canada!

Get a quote for your travel plans today here.

We pride ourselves on offering excellent customer service and going the extra mile for our policyholders; check out our customer reviews on the independent review site Feefo.

IEC For Canada: Time To Apply?

With the recent updates making the IEC program more accessible, now is the perfect time to apply!

The IEC program offers a fantastic opportunity to gain international work experience, explore Canada’s diverse landscapes, or immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. Who’s in?