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International Experience Canada

Who can participate in International Experience Canada?

Normally, you must be a Canadian or foreign youth aged 18 to 35. For some countries, the age limit is 18 to 29 or 30 years old.

Find out if you’re eligible to work and travel in Canada.

If you’re Canadian, find out if you’re eligible to work and travel abroad.


What kinds of jobs can I have with an International Experience Canada work permit?

You can work in many different areas. It depends what you want to do and how hard you want to look for a job. Many participants find work in the tourism and hospitality industries (restaurants, pubs and hotels), where employers are willing to offer temporary work for shorter periods of time.

If you have the right education, experience or certifications, you can also work in fields such as:

Visit Job Bank to find jobs across Canada and to see the qualifications that employers are looking for.

If you apply under the Young Professionals category, the job you’re offered must count toward your “professional development.” To count, the job must be classified under Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) category 0, 1, 2 or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).


Do I need a job offer to submit my International Experience Canada profile?

It depends on the category you’re applying for.

Working Holiday

You don’t need a job offer to submit your profile.

Young Professionals or International Co-op (Internship)

Before you submit your profile, you must have a signed letter of offer or contract of employment for a

If you receive an invitation to apply for a work permit, contact your employer. Before you submit your work permit application, your employer must


Can I participate in International Experience Canada more than once?

You may be able to participate in International Experience Canada (IEC) more than once. It depends on the agreement between Canada and your country of citizenship.

If you're allowed to participate a second time, you may have to wait a specific period of time before doing so. This waiting period applies to citizens of the following countries:

The waiting period starts after your first IEC work permit expires. If you apply for an IEC work permit before the waiting period ends, we'll refuse your application.

Check the eligibility requirements to find out:

See also If I'm a dual citizen, can I have an International Experience Canada work permit for each citizenship?


I’ve reached the maximum number of participations for my country or category in IEC. If I get an invitation to apply, can I participate in the program again?

No. Even if you get a “Welcome to the Pool Letter” and an invitation to apply, for many countries, you can’t participate in the same category twice. For some countries, you can only participate once, even if you apply to a different pool.

Check the eligibility requirements before you submit your profile or pay any fees. We only decide if you’re able to participate in the program once we review the work permit. If you’re not eligible, your application will be refused and we’ll refund you the IEC fee. However, if you’ve given your biometrics, we can’t refund the biometrics fee.

If you’ve reached the maximum number of participations for your country or pool, you may still be able to participate in IEC through a Recognized Organization (RO). Learn more about using an RO.


I’m almost too old for International Experience Canada. Can I still apply?

Yes. You can submit a profile to an International Experience Canada (IEC) pool. Your profile will stay in the pool until:

If we invite you to apply for a work permit before your birthday, you have passed our eligibility assessment for the age requirements for IEC.

If we approve your work permit application, you must enter Canada while your Port of Entry (POE) Letter is still valid. You do not have to enter Canada before your birthday.


Can I immigrate to Canada through International Experience Canada?

No. If you want to live in Canada permanently, you need to apply for permanent residence.

Use the Come to Canada tool to find out what programs you can apply for permanent residence under.

See also Can I apply to International Experience Canada and Express Entry?


Is it possible to study in Canada while participating in IEC?

Yes. You are allowed to enroll in individual courses under any of the IEC categories. The course(s) must be completed within a 6-month period. They also must not be part of a program lasting longer than 6 months, such as a 2-year program or 4-year degree. If the course or program is longer than 6 months, you will need to apply for a study permit.

Workers who can study without a study permit

You may also be eligible to study without a study permit if you are in either of the following situations:

  1. You have a valid work permit that was issued on or before June 7, 2023.
  2. You were issued a letter on or before June 7, 2023, authorizing you to work while we process your work permit application.
    1. You can use this letter if you’re waiting for a decision on your work permit extension.

Note that you’re not eligible if you applied for a new IEC participation and are waiting for a decision.

Find out if you’re eligible.


Can I have both a study permit and a work permit under International Experience Canada?

Yes. You can have two valid permits at the same time under International Experience Canada (IEC). If you receive an invitation to apply, you can apply for an IEC work permit even if you have a valid study permit. You can also apply for a study permit if you have a valid work permit through IEC.

IEC is not meant for foreign youth who plan to study in Canada for more than 6 months during their IEC participation. If you want to study in Canada for more than 6 months, you must apply for a study permit.

Workers who can study without a study permit

You may also be eligible to study without a study permit if you are in either of the following situations:

  1. You have a valid work permit that was issued on or before June 7, 2023.
  2. You were issued a letter on or before June 7, 2023, authorizing you to work while we process your work permit application.
    1. You can use this letter if you’re waiting for a decision on your work permit extension.

Note that you’re not eligible if you applied for a new IEC participation and are waiting for a decision.

Find out if you’re eligible.


What’s the difference between an International Experience Canada work permit and other work permits?

You can get an International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit only if

IEC is part of the International Mobility Program, which means employers who hire IEC participants do not need to complete a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).


Can I enter Canada if I am criminally inadmissible?

Normally you cannot enter or stay in Canada if you are inadmissible. However, there are ways of overcoming your criminal inadmissibility.

If you are inadmissible, you may become admissible again if you:

You may also be offered a temporary resident permit if:

Visits considered justified could include family emergencies or business conferences. Pleasure trips are normally not considered justified in the circumstances.

This permit has a processing fee of C$200. There are some fee exceptions.


Can I travel with a specific person for International Experience Canada?

There is no guarantee that you will both be invited to apply for a work permit through International Experience Canada (IEC).

If you both have profiles in an IEC pool, it is possible that you could both be invited to apply. This applies even if that person is your

If one of you gets an invitation to apply before the other, you can accept or decline your invitation.

Before you make a decision, check the rounds of invitations page to learn more about your chances of getting an invitation to apply.

If you accept your invitation to apply

You can complete and submit your work permit application. Be aware that once we issue your port of entry (POE) letter, you can’t get a refund.

If your travelling partner isn’t invited to apply, they may be eligible for a different type of work permit outside the IEC program. In most cases, they will need a job offer before they apply for their own work permit.

If you decline your invitation to apply

You and your travelling partner might both be invited in a future round. Again, there is no guarantee.


Can I apply to International Experience Canada and Express Entry at the same time?

Yes. Create one profile for International Experience Canada and another one for Express Entry.

You can use the same account for both profiles.


If I’m a dual citizen, can I have an International Experience Canada work permit under each citizenship?

Yes. For example, you can get a work permit once as a citizen of the United Kingdom and a second time as an Irish citizen

To do this, you need to:


I participated in IEC in the past. How do I apply to participate again?

You have to complete and submit a new profile if you previously:

You should also make sure that you’re eligible to apply again.

You can’t use your profile from the previous year.

At the end of each season, we remove all the profiles from all the pools. We notify you through your account that the pools have closed.


My International Experience Canada application was approved, but I didn’t go to Canada. Does that count as a participation?

No. As of January 9, 2023, it only counts as a participation if you arrive in Canada and receive your work permit.

In the past, getting a port of entry (POE) letter of introduction counted as a participation. The definition of a participation changed to help youth who could not come to Canada before their POE letter expired.

If you applied before January 9, 2023

If you didn’t come to Canada before your POE letter expired, it doesn’t count as a participation. If you’re still eligible, you can create a new profile.

When to create a new profile

You must wait until your POE letter expires to create a new profile.


Do I have to apply online for my International Experience Canada work permit or can I apply by mail or in person?

You must apply online for an International Experience Canada work permit. You will need a valid credit card and the ability to upload documents to apply online.

You cannot mail your application or submit it in person, and you cannot use the services of a visa application centre to submit your application.


How long does it take to get an International Experience Canada invitation to apply?

It depends on the International Experience Canada (IEC) pool you are in. Invitations to apply are issued in the following order:

  1. International Internship (Co-op)
  2. Young Professionals
  3. Working Holiday

There are usually more spots available than there are candidates in these categories:

Candidates with a profile in these pools will usually receive an invitation to apply as long as spots are available.

Working Holiday candidates could be in the pool for several weeks or months. We will randomly select candidates from the pool and invite them to apply for a work permit. All candidates in the pool have an equal chance of being invited. It is also possible that you will not receive an invitation to apply before the end of the season.

Learn more about your chances of getting an invitation to apply this season.

Note: You can receive only one invitation to apply during each round of invitations.

Candidates using a recognized organization

Once rounds of invitations begin for your recognized organization, you may be in the pool for a few weeks.

Only candidates with a recognized organization acceptance letter will receive an invitation to apply.

Note: If you are using a recognized organization and you are not sure if you need a letter, you can ask your recognized organization for help.

If you made a mistake in your IEC profile and you should not be in a recognized organization pool, you must

To become a candidate in another pool, you must be eligible for another IEC category.


Candidates in the Working Holiday pool will be randomly selected to apply for a work permit. What does that mean?

During each round of invitations, you and the other candidates in the pool have an equal chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply. Your profile will not be scored or ranked. A computerized system will randomly pick a number of candidates.


You asked me for a new document. How do I submit it?

When we ask you for documents, we also included information on how to send them to us.

Make sure to send your documents the way we ask you to. Otherwise, you could experience delays.

If we sent you the request via your account

Follow these instructions to upload your documents through your online account:

  1. Sign in to the account you used to apply online. (If you used IRCC secure account, sign in to that account.)
  2. Look for your application under View the applications you submitted.
  3. Under the Action column, click Check full application status.
  4. At the top of the page, click View submitted application or upload documents.
  5. Scroll down the page and click Continue.  
  6. Under “Documents submitted by the client” you can find
    • Document Name: the document we need
    • Instructions: more information on the type of document and how to get it
    • Required by: the latest date by when we need to receive the document
  7. Click Upload file and follow the steps to find and choose your documents from your computer and upload your document to your account.
  8. Make sure the Details column shows the message Uploaded - not submitted to IRCC.
  9. Click Next.
  10. Provide your Signature by entering your Given name(s) and Last name(s).
  11. Answer the Security Question.
  12. Click Sign.
  13. Click Transmit.
  14. The following message should appear on your screen: “Congratulations! You have successfully submitted your application or profile. You have successfully transmitted your additional or replacement document(s).”
  15. After you see the message, you will receive an email confirming that you have added a new document.

If we requested the documents through regular mail or email

Check the request message and follow the instructions on how to send us your documents.

If you have problems sending us your documents

If you can’t find our request letter/email, or if you have technical problems, contact us via our web form, tell us about your issue and send us your documents.


I have a question about a document I am asked to submit in my online account. Who can I ask?

To find out why you are being asked to submit a specific document, to get more information about what a document should be, or to let us know why you cannot provide a document

The processing officer will read your letter and provide more information based on your case.

See also: What do I do if I run into technical problems with my online visa or permit application?


What do I do if I have technical problems when applying online?

Here are some solutions that could help you with technical issues.

Problems downloading, opening or uploading a PDF form

We have some answers that could help.

Find more answers about technical issues with PDF forms and other aspects of applying online.

IRCC secure account – While you’re applying

Technical problems – Filling out an application or trying to upload documents

If you can’t find a solution in our answers about technical issues

  • Use the Report a technical issue button at the top of your account to share the issue with us.
    • An agent will respond to you as soon as they can. Our response time can vary depending on overall volume of enquiries.

If you’re in Canada and applying to work or study

In some cases, you need to follow special instructions to complete your application, or you may need to apply on paper. Find out if this applies to you.

All online applications – While you're applying or after you submit your application

This includes the IRCC secure account, the IRCC Portal, the online citizenship application, the Permanent Residence Portal and all other types of online accounts with us.

If the technical problem is not addressed by our answers about technical issues

  • Use our web form and choose Technical difficulties as the type of enquiry.

To help us find and solve the issue as fast as possible, follow the steps below.

  1. Personal information and description of the issue

    Include the following details on the web form:

    • surname (last name)
    • given name(s)
    • date of birth
    • country of birth
    • the type of device you were using (PC, Mac, iPad, etc.)
    • the browser you were using (including version)
    • your general location (Africa, Asia, Europe, etc.)
    • description of the problem or error message, including the date and time (including time zone) it happened
    • screenshots of the page where you had the problem
    • a copy/paste text of the full URL of the page
    • as much information as possible about the steps you took before you had the problem
  2. Additional details about your application

    If you have any or all of the following, also include them on the web form:

    • Unique Client Identifier (UCI)/Client ID Number
    • application number
    • personal reference code
    • current status in Canada and the date of expiration
    • the date you applied
  3. Screenshots or other documents that show us what the problem is

    Showing us what the technical issue is (for example, the messages you may have seen on screen) and when exactly it happened will help us better understand what you experienced and will allow us to provide the right solution.

    For technical issues uploading a form or document, include

    • a copy of the form or document you’re trying to upload (with all fields completed), and
    • all your answers to the online questionnaire
      • To do this
        • choose “Modify my Answers” at the top of the page
        • save your answers into a document by
          • taking screen shots or
          • copying and pasting the text

    For technical issues linking your application to a new account, include

    • all your answers on the “Link an existing application to this account” page. Save them in a document by
      • taking screenshots or
      • copying and pasting the text

    For all other technical issues, include

    • screenshots showing the full browser window of the
      • page where you’re having problems or trying to sign into your account
      • error message(s) you got

If you need to send many documents and images, find out how to combine documents.

We’ll try to answer within 10 business days after you contact us. Our response time is dependent on the volume of enquiries we receive.

Please do not send your question more than once. It can delay our answer.

  • Make sure that your enquiry is as complete as possible before you submit a web form.

Why do I need to get a police certificate?

We use police certificates to find out if you have a criminal record. They help immigration officers make sure you are not a security risk to Canada.

Learn more about police certificates.


How do I give my fingerprints and get an RCMP criminal record check from inside or outside Canada?

RCMP service delays

There’s currently a large demand for RCMP criminal record checks. Your request may be delayed. If this delay has affected you, we’ll automatically extend the deadline to provide the criminal record check by 30 days. You don’t need to contact us or the RCMP to extend the deadline.

If you have lived in Canada for more than 6 months since the age of 18, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) may ask you for fingerprints to complete your criminal record check.

Do not request a criminal record check unless we send you a letter asking for one.

If you need to submit fingerprints for a citizenship application, they must be collected inside Canada.

How to submit fingerprints for a criminal record check from inside or outside Canada.

If you need to give your fingerprints for a criminal record check, this is not the same as giving your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for an application.


How can I find a doctor to do my immigration medical exam?

Only a doctor we have approved can do the immigration medical exam. This doctor is known as a panel physician.

Use our list of approved panel physicians to find one closest to you. You cannot use your family doctor if their name is not on this list.

Other things you should know about panel physicians and the exam:

Find out more about medical exams.


What do I do if I get a new passport after I apply for International Experience Canada?

It depends on where you are in the application process.

If your profile is still in the pool

You can withdraw your current profile and submit a new profile using your updated passport information.

If you’ve submitted your work permit application

If you don’t have your port of entry (POE) letter of introduction

  • Submit a scanned copy of your new passport using the Web form.
  • In the enquiry box, please provide:
    • your old passport number
    • your application ID number, which is provided in your acknowledgement letter.

If you already have your letter of introduction

If you’re from an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or visa-required country, you will need to get a new eTA or visa.

Bring a photocopy of your old passport and your new valid passport with you to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, you must tell the border services officer that you have a new passport.

The officer will check your documents and print out your work permit if you meet the requirements to enter Canada.

Your work permit is still valid even if it is attached to your old passport number.

Before you leave the officer make sure that all the information on your work permit is correct including:

  • your personal information
  • any employer specific information:
    • your employer’s name and location
    • your job
    • the conditions of your work permit match the conditions on the letter of offer from your employer

If you changed your passport because you got married or divorced, bring:

  • a copy of your marriage certificate; or
  • proof of your divorce.

There is a mistake in my name on my work permit, can you fix it?

Yes. Your name on your work permit should be exactly as it is on your passport.

If we made a mistake and the name on your permit does not match the name on your passport, submit a Request to Amend the Record of Landing, Confirmation of Permanent Residence or Valid Temporary Resident Documents.

Read the instruction guide to find out how to fill out the form and where to submit


My International Experience Canada application was refused because I didn't provide a document. What should I do?

If your work permit application was refused and you'd still like to take part in International Experience Canada (IEC), you need to start again by submitting a new profile.

If we invite you to apply for a work permit, you can submit a new work permit application. Read your document checklist carefully. Make sure that you upload all of the documents we ask you to give us.


Will my spouse or common-law partner get a work permit under International Experience Canada to come with me?

No. If your spouse or common-law partner wants to work in Canada, they have the following 2 options:

Option 1: Apply for International Experience Canada

Your spouse or common-law partner can submit a profile to the International Experience Canada program. They must meet the requirements and follow the application steps if they are invited to apply for a work permit.

Option 2: Apply for a work permit outside the International Experience Canada program

In some cases, your spouse or common-law partner may be able to apply for an open work permit, which would allow them to accept a job from any employer.

Starting January 30, 2023, family members of most foreign workers can apply for an open work permit. Find out more about these changes.

In other cases, they must apply for an employer-specific work permit. The employer may have to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA allows an employer to hire someone for a specific job. Find out if your spouse or common-law partner’s employer needs an LMIA to hire them.

How we assess their application

For both options, your spouse or common-law partner’s work permit application will be assessed separately from yours.

If your spouse or common-law partner is not eligible for a work permit, they may be able to come to Canada as a visitor.

See also Can my spouse or common-law partner and dependent children come with me to Canada?


Can I be invited to apply if I've lost my username or password?

Yes. If you’re invited to apply, you’ll get an email at the address you provided. The email will say that you have a new message in your account.

To accept or decline your invitation, you need to sign in to your account.

If you’ve forgotten your password or username, follow these instructions.

If you need to create a new account, you’ll need to link your application to your new account. You may need your profile or application number to do this. You can find this number at the end of the subject line of an email we’ve sent you (example: W300027607).

After you change your password or link your application, follow these steps:

  1. Go back to the main page in your account.
  2. Scroll down to the table under the heading “Continue an application you haven’t submitted.”
  3. Find the application called
    • “Work permit” for International Experience Canada, or
    • “Permanent residence” for Express Entry.
  4. To accept your invitation to apply, click “Start application.”

If there’s no application, you can check the status and messages for your profile under the heading “View the applications you submitted.”


What do I do if a form in my International Experience Canada application is marked “In progress”?

Follow these steps:

  1. Go into the form that is still “In progress”.
  2. Scroll down the page and click the “Validate” button. You will see an error message next to any fields where you are missing information or have made a mistake.
  3. Fill in the missing information or correct your mistakes.
  4. Scroll down the page and click the “Validate” button again.
  5. If everything is complete and correct, click “Save and exit”.

If you get an error in the “Personal details” form of your work permit application, open the ID documents section and follow these steps.

  1. Check the passport table to see if the “Primary passport” column is blank.

  2. If it is blank and this is the passport you plan to use when you come to Canada, click the “Make this my primary passport” button.
  3. Click “Save and add”. Your passport will now be marked as your primary passport.

  4. Scroll down the page and click the “Validate” button again.
  5. If everything is complete, click “Save and exit”. All forms should now be marked “Complete”.

Why do I need an offer of employment number if I’m applying for a Working Holiday work permit?

When you filled out your International Experience Canada (IEC) profile, you said that you have a job offer in Canada. That’s why you’re being asked in the form for an offer of employment number and other details about your employer in Canada.

To complete this part of the application, follow these steps:

See also Apply for a work permit – International Experience Canada.


What is a port of entry (POE) letter?

It’s a letter you may receive from IRCC if you’ve been approved for a

Officially, it’s called the port of entry (POE) letter of introduction. But this letter is sometimes called the

The letter of introduction is not your study or work permit.

You’ll get this letter if you were approved and you

When you arrive in Canada

Tell the officer at the port of entry about your approved application.

If you don’t have a printed copy of your letter of introduction, you can show


How long is my POE Letter valid?

There is a box titled “Permit validity” on your Port of Entry (POE) Letter. You must come to Canada prior to that date.

If the validity date has passed and you have not yet come to Canada, you must submit a new application.

You cannot extend the validity date on your POE Letter.

Your POE Letter will be valid for the requested length of your work permit, study permit or super visa. You may be eligible to extend your work permit once you are in Canada.

International Experience Canada participants only

Your POE Letter will normally be valid for 12 months. If you underwent a medical exam, it will be valid until the expiry date of your medical exam or for 12 months, whichever is less.

You can only extend your International Experience Canada work permit in very specific situations. Find out if you can extend your work permit.


If I don’t use my letter of introduction for International Experience Canada, will I get a refund?

No. Your fees are not refundable once we issue your port of entry (POE) letter of introduction.

If you choose not to come to Canada, you won’t get a refund.

If your POE letter expires and you still want to come to Canada, you may submit your profile again.

If you withdraw your work permit application before we issue your letter, your fees will be refunded.


I have lost, deleted or damaged my POE Letter. What should I do?

Contact us using the Web form and ask us to re-send your Port of Entry (POE) Letter.

If you applied online, we will usually re-send your POE Letter to you through your account. If you cannot access or link to your original application in your account, make sure you include that detail in your message.


My passport was lost or stolen after I received my Port of Entry (POE) Letter. Will my POE Letter need to be modified?

No. If you have to replace your passport after getting your POE Letter, your letter will not need to be modified. When you arrive in Canada you must tell the Border Services Officer that you replaced your passport in order for the information on your work permit to match the information on your new passport.

Find out what to do if you got a new passport.


I can't get a bank statement before I come to Canada. What do I do?

International Experience Canada participants who can't get a bank statement may show the following as proof of funds when they arrive at a Canadian port of entry:

Bring the original letter provided by your banking institution, not a photocopy.

See also Prepare for arrival – International Experience Canada


Can I come to Canada before I receive my POE Letter?

We strongly recommend you wait until you receive your Port of Entry (POE) Letter before travelling to Canada. If you do not have your POE Letter when you arrive at a Canadian port of entry, you will not get a work permit. The Border Services Officer will decide if you may be admitted as a visitor (tourist). As a visitor, you are not allowed to work.

If you are in Canada when you receive your POE Letter, you must:

If you plan to leave and re-enter Canada through the United States, you must meet US immigration requirements. Contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate to find out if you meet these requirements.

See also My IEC work permit application was approved, but I don’t want to work yet. Can I enter Canada as a visitor for now?


What type of insurance do I need for International Experience Canada?

For International Experience Canada, you must have health insurance for the entire time you are in Canada. The health insurance must cover

We recommend you buy this insurance only after you receive your port of entry (POE) letter. We can’t recommend specific insurance companies or plans, but you can search online for something that meets your needs.

You may be refused entry if you don’t have insurance. If your insurance policy is valid for less time than your expected stay in Canada, you may be issued a work permit that expires at the same time as your insurance.


My IEC work permit application was approved, but I don’t want to work yet. Can I enter Canada as a visitor for now?

Yes, as long as you satisfy the border services officer that you are entering as a visitor and will not be working.

When you are ready to work in Canada, you will need to go to a Port of Entry (exit and re-enter Canada). When you re-enter, you must present your Port of Entry (POE) Letter to get your work permit. Make sure your POE Letter is not expired.

If you received an eTA with your work permit, you do not need to apply for a second eTA.

See also Can I come to Canada before I receive my POE Letter?


Can I extend my International Experience Canada work permit?

You can only extend your work permit in very specific situations. Find out if you can extend your work permit.


What should I do if my employer wants me to continue working after my International Experience Canada work permit expires?

You can only extend your International Experience Canada work permit in very specific situations. Find out if you can extend your work permit.


Can I change employers if I have an International Experience Canada work permit?

If you have a work permit under the Working Holiday category, you can change employers whenever you want or need to.

Under the Young Professionals and International Co-op (Internship) categories, you can only change your employer if you have a valid reason.


Can I stay in Canada as a tourist after my work permit expires?

You may be able to apply to change your status from “worker” to “visitor.” We consider tourists to be visitors.

Read the Applying to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada guide to find out

You need to apply at least 30 days before your work permit expires. There is no guarantee your application will be approved.


My IEC work permit is expiring. Can I stay in Canada if I apply to extend my stay?

You can stay in Canada if you maintain your status as a temporary resident of Canada.

How to maintain your status

To maintain your status, before your work permit expires, you must apply

Applying for a new IEC participation?

You do not maintain your status in Canada if you apply for a new IEC participation. If you want to stay in Canada while you wait for a decision on your new IEC participation, you must apply to extend your stay as a visitor before your work permit expires. You must stop working while you wait.

Who doesn’t maintain their status

You don’t maintain your status if you

Find out what to do if your work permit expired before you applied to extend it.

Who can work while waiting for a decision

If you applied to extend your stay in Canada as a worker, you’re authorized to keep working until we finalize your application. However, you can only keep working if

If you applied for a study permit or a visitor record, you’ll maintain your status as a temporary resident but you must stop working once your work permit expires.


How much does it cost to participate in International Experience Canada?

There are no fees to submit a profile to an International Experience Canada (IEC) pool. You do have to pay fees when you submit an online work permit application. You need an invitation to apply to start your work permit application.

Your fees will depend on the IEC category you are applying for.

All IEC participants must pay the IEC fee.

To see the current fees for participating in IEC

  1. Go to Pay your fees.
  2. Select the country you’re applying from.
  3. Select Temporary residence under What type of application are you submitting?
  4. Select International Experience Canada (Working Holiday, International Co-op or Young Professionals).

Working Holiday participants

You must also pay the open work permit holder fee. This also applies to participants applying through a recognized organization.

Young Professionals and International Co-op (Internship) participants

You don’t have to pay any other fees. Your Canadian employer must do both of the following:

Your employer must complete these steps before you submit your work permit application.

This also applies to participants applying through a recognized organization.

Biometrics

Depending on your country or territory of citizenship, you may also need to submit your biometrics. If you do, you’ll need to pay the biometrics fee as well.


Can I get a refund if I cancel my International Experience Canada work permit application?

Yes, you can, but only if we haven’t issued your Port of Entry (POE) letter.

Find out how to withdraw your application.


How do I get a refund for International Experience Canada?

Normally, you’ll be issued a refund within eight weeks if

You don’t have to do anything else to get your refund. Learn more about refunds and International Experience Canada.


Who can I contact if I have questions about GCKey or Sign-In Partner?

For questions about GCKey, please call 1-855-438-1102. The GCKey help desk is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. More information is available on the GCKey website.

For questions about Sign-In Partner (Interac® sign-in service), find out how to get help.


How do I get a GCKey credential?

To register for a GCKey, go to the sign in page and click the “Continue to GCKey” button.

Then, choose a user name and a password. It’ll ask you to create security questions. Keep a copy of this in a safe place in case you forget.


What do I do if I lost my GCKey username or password?

If you lost your GCKey password, you can create a new one.

If you lost your GCKey username, you can recover it.

If you lost your email, you have to create a new GCKey. If you create a new GCKey, you can access an application by linking the application to your new account.

See also: I recently reset my account, but I don’t see my application. How can I get it back?


What do I do if I have technical problems when applying online?

Here are some solutions that could help you with technical issues.

Problems downloading, opening or uploading a PDF form

We have some answers that could help.

Find more answers about technical issues with PDF forms and other aspects of applying online.

IRCC secure account – While you’re applying

Technical problems – Filling out an application or trying to upload documents

If you can’t find a solution in our answers about technical issues

  • Use the Report a technical issue button at the top of your account to share the issue with us.
    • An agent will respond to you as soon as they can. Our response time can vary depending on overall volume of enquiries.

If you’re in Canada and applying to work or study

In some cases, you need to follow special instructions to complete your application, or you may need to apply on paper. Find out if this applies to you.

All online applications – While you're applying or after you submit your application

This includes the IRCC secure account, the IRCC Portal, the online citizenship application, the Permanent Residence Portal and all other types of online accounts with us.

If the technical problem is not addressed by our answers about technical issues

  • Use our web form and choose Technical difficulties as the type of enquiry.

To help us find and solve the issue as fast as possible, follow the steps below.

  1. Personal information and description of the issue

    Include the following details on the web form:

    • surname (last name)
    • given name(s)
    • date of birth
    • country of birth
    • the type of device you were using (PC, Mac, iPad, etc.)
    • the browser you were using (including version)
    • your general location (Africa, Asia, Europe, etc.)
    • description of the problem or error message, including the date and time (including time zone) it happened
    • screenshots of the page where you had the problem
    • a copy/paste text of the full URL of the page
    • as much information as possible about the steps you took before you had the problem
  2. Additional details about your application

    If you have any or all of the following, also include them on the web form:

    • Unique Client Identifier (UCI)/Client ID Number
    • application number
    • personal reference code
    • current status in Canada and the date of expiration
    • the date you applied
  3. Screenshots or other documents that show us what the problem is

    Showing us what the technical issue is (for example, the messages you may have seen on screen) and when exactly it happened will help us better understand what you experienced and will allow us to provide the right solution.

    For technical issues uploading a form or document, include

    • a copy of the form or document you’re trying to upload (with all fields completed), and
    • all your answers to the online questionnaire
      • To do this
        • choose “Modify my Answers” at the top of the page
        • save your answers into a document by
          • taking screen shots or
          • copying and pasting the text

    For technical issues linking your application to a new account, include

    • all your answers on the “Link an existing application to this account” page. Save them in a document by
      • taking screenshots or
      • copying and pasting the text

    For all other technical issues, include

    • screenshots showing the full browser window of the
      • page where you’re having problems or trying to sign into your account
      • error message(s) you got

If you need to send many documents and images, find out how to combine documents.

We’ll try to answer within 10 business days after you contact us. Our response time is dependent on the volume of enquiries we receive.

Please do not send your question more than once. It can delay our answer.

  • Make sure that your enquiry is as complete as possible before you submit a web form.

I recently reset my IRCC secure account, but I don’t see my application. How can I get it back?

If you have just reset your IRCC secure account because you lost your username or password, as a security measure we need to ask you questions about the application you submitted before we give you access to it.

To link an application you have in progress to your IRCC secure account, sign in to your account and click on “Link application to this account” under the heading “What would you like to do today?”

You will have to tell us specific information about the application you would like to access. Have a copy of your application form on hand as you will have to enter the information exactly as you did on your application form.


How do I sign my online application?

IRCC secure account

You have to type in your name and answer a security question to submit your application. This is your electronic signature. Do not print out your application form to sign it.

To sign your online application

  1. Type your name in the boxes.

    Your given name and last name must be exactly the same as on your application form. If you’re under the age of 18, your parent or guardian must sign your form for you.

  2. Answer the security question.

    This will be one of the four security questions you created when you registered your account. You must answer exactly as you did when you created them.

Online application to become a Canadian citizen

You can sign your application

Permanent residence portal

To electronically sign your application

This will act as an electronic signature for the overall application and all digital forms.

Your first and last names must be exactly the same as on your passport.


I’m having technical issues. My invitation to apply for a work permit expires soon. What do I do?

If you’re having problems with your International Experience Canada invitation to apply or work permit application, these tips may help:

What to do if you’re still having problems

Your next step is to report your technical issue. We need as much detail as possible to know what’s wrong.

Click on the “Report a technical issue” button at the top of your account.

Fill out the form with all the required information, including the following:

It can take us some time to fix technical issues. Please do not send more than one report for the same issue, as it may slow down our response.

If your invitation to apply or application expires

If your invitation to apply or work permit application expires before we can help you, don’t panic.

To ensure the application process is fair for all clients, we can re-invite clients who have technical problems. Follow these steps:

  1. Sign in to your account and go to the messages section at the bottom of the main page.
  2. Click on the technical issue report that you submitted, and take a screen shot.
  3. Go to the Web form.
  4. Select “International Experience Canada” as the type of application. Do not select any other option from the list.
  5. In the “Your enquiry” box, tell us that your invitation to apply or work permit application expired before you received help with the technical issue you reported.
  6. Provide the rest of the required information and be sure to include your client ID number.
  7. Upload a screen shot of the technical issue report that you submitted before your invitation expired.

An officer will assess your request. Normally, you’ll receive a response within five business days. If the officer approves your request, you’ll receive instructions on how to reapply.

Please do not submit another request before five business days have passed.


How can I prove I’m a resident of a country when applying to International Experience Canada (IEC)?

You may need to prove you’re a resident of a country or territory when you apply to IEC.

To do this, provide us with your mailing or permanent address in that country or territory. You don’t have to be in that country or territory when you apply.

Example: Elsa is a resident of Sweden, but she’s temporarily studying in France. She just needs to give us her address in Sweden.

If you’re an Italian citizen, you’ll also need to provide a residence certificate (certificato di residenza). Make sure you include a certified English or French translation of the certificate. Upload the certificate and translation in the Optional documents slot at the bottom of the Document Checklist page in your account.

Learn more about IEC’s eligibility requirements.


Do I have to answer the eligibility questions before I submit a profile?

Yes. You must answer the eligibility questions before you submit an International Experience Canada profile. Your answers tell us if you're eligible for a pool. Only eligible candidates' profiles will be added to the pool(s).

There are two ways to answer these questions:

If you're not sure if you're eligible, you can save time by answering the questions before you create an account.


What is a personal reference code and how do I get one for International Experience Canada (IEC)?

Your personal reference code is created once you finish answering the questions in the Come to Canada tool. It is used to transfer the information from your answers over to the International Experience Canada (IEC) profile builder in your account. It looks like this: JM1234567890.

If you are logged into your account when you answer the questions in the Come to Canada tool, you will not get a personal reference code.

Note: The personal reference code is not the same as the IEC profile number. The profile number is given to each completed IEC profile.


My personal reference code for International Experience Canada (IEC) is not working. What should I do?

If you answered the questions in the Come to Canada tool before you logged into your account, you will have a personal reference code. It looks like this: JM1234567890.

If you have already started to create an International Experience Canada profile in your account, the reference code will not work. To continue your profile, scroll to the bottom of your account and:

If you have not started creating your profile and your code is not working, you will have to go through the Come to Canada tool again for a new reference code.


In my online profile or application I am getting validation errors or it tells me that fields are incomplete when they are not. What do I do?

You may want to try using a different Web browser such as Firefox or Google Chrome. You should also check your browser’s language settings and make sure it is set to English or French as special characters can cause errors.

If you are still having a problem, try clearing your browser cache. Your browser’s Help section can tell you how to do this. If the problem continues, you can contact us.

See also One of the forms in my International Experience Canada (IEC) profile is marked “In progress”. How do I fix this?


I accidently withdrew my International Experience Canada profile. How can I fix this?

If you withdrew your profile, you will need to create a new one if you want to enter the pool(s) again.

You will have to meet the International Experience Canada eligibility requirements.


I was found not eligible for International Experience Canada (IEC). What do I do?

To be eligible for IEC, you must meet certain requirements.

If you made a mistake the first time you used the Come to Canada tool or if your circumstances have changed, you can use the tool again to see if you are eligible. If your situation has not changed, it is likely that you will still not be eligible.

Here are some examples of changes to your situation that could make you eligible for IEC:


I already submitted my International Experience Canada (IEC) profile. Can I update it?

No, you cannot update your profile after you have submitted it. If your situation has changed and this affects your eligibility, you should withdraw your profile and submit a new one. This will not affect your chances of being invited to apply again if you submit your new profile before the next round of invitations for your country of citizenship.

Find out how to withdraw your profile.


How do I withdraw or delete my International Experience Canada profile?

To remove your profile from a pool, withdraw your profile.

To withdraw your profile, follow these steps:

  1. On the main page of your account, go to the “What would you like to do today?” section.
  2. Scroll down to the “View my submitted applications or profiles” section.
  3. Select the “International Experience Canada” row.
  4. Click on the “Withdraw profile” button.
  5. Under the “What would you like to do today?” heading below the “Warning!” text, click on the “Continue” button.

If you’ve started a profile but haven’t yet submitted it to a pool, you can delete it.

To delete your profile, follow these steps:

  1. On the main page of your account, go to the “What would you like to do today?” section.
  2. Scroll down to the “Continue my profile / application, not yet submitted” section.
  3. Click on the “Delete profile” button.
  4. Under the “What would you like to do today?” heading below the “Warning!” text, click on the “Continue” button.

If you have a work permit application in progress, you can’t delete or withdraw your profile.

If there’s a mistake in the information you provided in your profile, please follow these steps:

  1. Contact us using the Web form.
  2. Select “International Experience Canada” as the type of application.
  3. Let us know that you’ve received an invitation to apply and that there is a mistake or problem with the information transferred from your profile.
  4. Wait for further instructions.

It can take up to five days to respond to your request.


I can't submit a new International Experience Canada profile because I already have one. What do I do?

Your next steps will depend on the reason why you are trying to create a new profile.

If you created a new account

You may have created a new account because you forgot your username or password. You can link your new account to your existing profile.

To link your new account to your profile, you must complete the following steps:

  1. Go to the main page of your account
  2. Scroll down to the heading “What would you like to do today?”
  3. Click on the button “Link application to this account.”
  4. Select “Temporary residence” as the category in the drop down menu.
  5. Select “International Experience Canada” as the sub-category.
  6. Follow the instructions to link to your IEC profile.

See also When trying to link my application to my online account, it says there are no matches. What's going on?

If you want to update your profile

If your situation has changed and you need to update your profile, you must withdraw your current profile. You can then submit a new profile with your updated information.

If you didn't create a profile

If someone else used your passport number to create an International Experience Canada profile, please contact us using this Web form.


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