Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
- Most sponsors are in:
- Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia
- Most sponsored occupations:
- Harvesting labourers, Livestock labourers, Cooks
LMIA volume is dominated by seasonal agriculture, so this shows who sponsors, not demand for any particular profession.
About the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)
The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) is Canada's working holiday visa programme. Allows young people (18-35) from eligible countries to work and travel in Canada for up to 2 years.
Applications are processed in 1–3 months on average. Government fees start at $270, and the visa is valid for 2 years.
To qualify, applicants generally need at least a High school diploma.
The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) is suited to study & work, digital nomad.
Weighing Canada against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
See how the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) stacks up head-to-head against related pathways:
Eligibility requirements
| Minimum education | High school diploma |
|---|---|
| Work experience | No minimum |
| Job offer required | No |
| Language test | Not required |
| Minimum age | 18 years |
| Maximum age | 35 years |
Official sources: IEC · canada.ca
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Does not directly lead to permanent residence.
Validity period
2 years
How to apply for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)
- 01
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials (minimum High school diploma), employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 02
Submit your IEC application
File online through the official Canada immigration portal and pay the government fee of $270. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 03
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 04
Receive decision (1–3 months)
Standard processing takes 1–3 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)?
A minimum High school diploma
How long does the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) take to process?
Processing time for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) is typically 1–3 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Canada immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) cost?
The government application fee for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) is $270 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Can the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) lead to permanent residence?
The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) itself does not directly lead to permanent residence in Canada. However, holders may be eligible to transition to a PR-pathway visa after meeting additional requirements. Use Transita's quiz to find visa routes that match your long-term goals.
Do I need a job offer for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)?
No. The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.
Can I work full-time on the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)?
The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) permits you to work in Canada for the duration of your visa, though some restrictions may apply (such as a maximum period with any one employer). It is designed primarily for travel and cultural exchange with work as a supplement.