The 2026 season of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program is officially open, offering young people from eligible countries a chance to live, work, and travel in Canada for up to two years. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed that travellers aged 18 to 35 can now apply, depending on their country of citizenship.
What Is IEC?
The IEC program allows young adults from partner countries to experience Canada beyond tourism. Participants can work temporarily while exploring the country, gaining local work experience and cultural immersion. While the program is temporary, it often serves as a stepping stone to long-term immigration options.
Who Can Apply?
Citizens of 36 eligible countries can participate, provided they meet age, health, character, and financial requirements. Work permits under the program vary by country, lasting 12 to 24 months.
IEC Categories:
- Working Holiday: Open work permit, no job offer needed, flexible for seasonal jobs.
- International Co-op (Internship): For students with employer-specific work permits related to their studies.
- Young Professionals: Requires a job offer matching education or career path, with employer-specific work permits.
Application Process:
Applications are processed through pools and invitations, not first-come, first-served. Applicants create an online profile, enter the pool, and wait for an invitation. Upon selection, they submit documents, receive a Port of Entry Letter, and activate their work permit upon arrival in Canada.
Eligible Countries
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hong Kong
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Mexico
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
Why IEC Matters:
The IEC program remains one of the easiest ways for young travellers to work legally abroad without employer sponsorship, earn income, and gain Canadian work experience. It is ideal for those exploring life in Canada and potentially planning longer-term stays.
The 2026 IEC season is now live, and interested candidates should check country-specific age limits, quotas, and category eligibility before applying.
Stay Connected with ProPakistani
Get the latest international news and global stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
whats the point of this if pakistan is not among those country’s! what benefit i get to read this ?