Working Holiday Visa

Live, work, and travel across Canada.

The Working Holiday Visa is a key part of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, offering young adults a unique opportunity to travel and gain work experience. We provide expert guidance to simplify the application process, helping you navigate the pools and requirements with confidence and ease.

The Working Holiday Visa is a key part of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, offering young adults a unique opportunity to travel and gain work experience. We provide expert guidance to simplify the application process, helping you navigate the pools and requirements with confidence and ease.

 

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

A Working Holiday Visa is an open work permit that allows young people from specific countries to live and work anywhere in Canada for a limited period, typically one to two years. There are two streams; Working Holiday and Young Professionals. Designed for those who want to travel and fund their trip with temporary work. 

 
Pool-Based Selection

This program uses a random, pool-based lottery system, which means you must be invited to apply. We help clients create a strong profile and navigate the invitation rounds to maximize their chances.

Age and Nationality Restrictions

Eligibility is based on your citizenship and age, which varies by country, with most limits being between 18-35. We help you confirm your eligibility and understand the specific requirements for your country.

Program Quotas

Each participating country has a limited number of spots available each year, making the process competitive. We assist in preparing your profile early to ensure you are in the pool as soon as it opens.

General Requirements

  • You must show proof of having at least CAD $2,500 upon your arrival in Canada to cover initial expenses.


  • Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your intended stay in Canada, as the work permit cannot exceed its expiry date.


  • It is mandatory to have health insurance for the entire length of your stay in Canada, and you may be asked to show proof upon entry.

Important Considerations

Strict Application Deadlines

Once you receive an Invitation to Apply, you have a very short window to submit your full work permit application.


Admissibility Requirements

Applicants must be admissible to Canada. 


Single-Use Opportunity

For many participants, this is a one-time opportunity, with a limited number of countries allowing a second participation.

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you’re handling it yourself or need guidance throughout, we’re here to support you.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consultation.
 

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you're ready to start on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consultation.

Get the help you need to succeed.

Personalized assessment

We evaluate your situation and outline the best options for your IEC journey.

Strategic planning

Tailored advice ensures your profile is competitive within the pool system.

Application support

Our team manages the complex forms and documentation to avoid common mistakes.

Ongoing guidance

We provide timely updates and direction throughout the unpredictable application process.

International youth celebrating together in Canada under IEC Working Holiday program

Participating Countries

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom.

Young Professionals

The Young Professionals category of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program is designed for youth who want to gain professional work experience in Canada that is directly related to their career goals. Applicants must first secure a job offer from a Canadian employer before submitting their expression of interest to the pool for a chance at being selected.



From Working Holiday to Permanent Resident

Many participants use their time on an open work permit to gain Canadian work experience, which can be a key factor in qualifying for programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system. This provides a direct pathway from temporary resident to permanent resident status.

Working Holiday participant researching pathway to Canadian permanent residence

Frequently Asked Questions

Your work permit will only be issued until the passport’s expiry. Renew your passport beforehand to receive the full 12–24 month validity.

Yes. Working Holiday permits are open permits, giving full flexibility to change employers anytime.

Yes. Many transition to PR via CEC or PNP once they accumulate work experience.

Some countries allow multiple participations within IEC; others only allow one. Check your country’s bilateral agreement.

You may lose your spot. POE letters cannot be extended unless IRCC issues special public policies.

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CanadianVisas.com is operated by Can-Am Immigration Inc., a Canadian immigration consulting firm. We provide access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), as well as full representation services and self-guided immigration tools. CanadianVisas.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except as authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act of Canada.