There are three different kinds of work and travel experiences available under International Experience Canada (IEC), including the Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op (Internship) pools. The information on this page primarily pertains to the Working Holiday pool, as the other pools may have additional requirements and different conditions. You can find out if you are eligible for other pools using the IEC Eligibility tool.
Age Limit:
You must be aged 18 to 35 (inclusive) to apply
Visa Duration:
24 months (up to 12 months for co-op pool)
Conditions:
- You must be a citizen of Ireland with an Irish passport valid for your stay in Canada
- You must have a return ticket or enough funds to be able to purchase one
- You must have a minimum of $2,500 (CAD) to cover expenses while in Canada. More is recommended
- Your dependents cannot come with you to Canada under the IEC. However, they may apply to visit, study or work in Canada. Your application is assessed separately from theirs
- You must have health insurance cover for the duration of your stay
- You must not be inadmissible to Canada. Find out if you are inadmissible to Canada here
- Young Professionals category only: have a signed letter of offer or contract of employment in Canada (this must be in your field of expertise and contribute to your professional development)
- International Co-Op (Internship) category only: be registered as a student at a postsecondary institution in Ireland, and have a signed letter of offer or a signed contract for a work placement or an internship in Canada that meets the requirements of your academic curriculum in Ireland
Application Fee:
From $172 (CAD) for the 2024 season. You may also have to pay a fee for biometrics and a work permit.
Processing Times:
You can check processing times and find out how to check your application progress on the Government of Canada website.
How to apply:
Before you can apply, you need to create an online profile expressing your interest in the IEC. Successful candidates are then invited to complete an application for a work permit in one or more of the categories or pools, subject to eligibility and availability.
Further Information:
Web: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec.html
Embassy of Canada to Ireland
7-8 Wilton Terrace 3rd floor
Dublin
D02 KC57.
Tel: (01) 234 4000
Watch Back Our IEC Webinars
In partnership with our colleagues at the Eamonn O’Loghlin Irish Canadian Immigration Centre (I/CAN), we regularly run information sessions on going to Canada on an IEC visa. Watch back our previous webinars on going to Toronto and Vancouver below and keep an eye on our events page for announcements and details on upcoming sessions.
