International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)
Young people from countries with a youth-mobility agreement who want to travel and work in Canada.
The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$172 participation fee + ~CA$100 open work permit holder fee) and processing time (~8 weeks after invitation (plus pool wait)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) is for
Young people from countries with a youth-mobility agreement who want to travel and work in Canada.
No direct PR, but Canadian work gained can support a later CEC or PNP application.
International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) - eligibility criteria
- Citizen of a country with a youth-mobility agreement (or use a recognized organization)
- Be within the eligible age range (usually 18-35)
- Have minimum funds (around CA$2,500)
- Hold health insurance for the stay
- Be admissible to Canada
International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) (Canada) is ~CA$172 participation fee + ~CA$100 open work permit holder fee, with an indicative processing time of ~8 weeks after invitation (plus pool wait). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online via the IEC pool (apply from outside Canada) |
| Length of stay | 12 to 24 months depending on nationality |
| Work rights | Open work permit (Working Holiday); work for most employers |
| Study rights | Short courses only |
| Government fee | ~CA$172 participation fee + ~CA$100 open work permit holder fee |
| Processing time | ~8 weeks after invitation (plus pool wait) |
| Route to PR | No direct PR, but Canadian work gained can support a later CEC or PNP application. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct PR, but Canadian work gained can support a later CEC or PNP application.
Many applicants also compare IMP Work Permit · LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program), CEC · Canadian Experience Class, TRV · Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) pitfalls we fix
International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) - frequently asked questions
How much does the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) cost?
The International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) government fee is ~CA$172 participation fee + ~CA$100 open work permit holder fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8 weeks after invitation (plus pool wait). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday) lead to permanent residence?
No direct PR, but Canadian work gained can support a later CEC or PNP application.
Can I work on the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)?
Work rights: Open work permit (Working Holiday); work for most employers.
Who can apply for the International Experience Canada (Working Holiday)?
Young people from countries with a youth-mobility agreement who want to travel and work in Canada.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority