The International Co-op (Internship) IEC work permit

How does the IEC International Co-op work permit application process work?

Step 1

At any point during an IEC season (usually mid-autumn to mid-autumn the following year), you can create a free Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) account.

Then, you have to create a profile and submit it to the International Co-op “pool.”

At this stage, you must already have an internship offer in Canada and it’s best to have the signed letter of offer in hand.

Refer to the Step-by-step guide to International Experience Canada work permits — International Co-op, Young Professionals and Working Holiday applications for screenshots and complete details.

Step 2

Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA). “Rounds of invitations” are issued weekly until the quota is met (i.e. there are no International Co-op work permits left for the IEC season).

Step 3

Once you receive your ITA, you have 10 days to accept or decline it.

If you accept it, you have 20 days to complete and submit your application. This involves filling out the online form, providing supporting documents and paying the fees (CA$257 in total, CA$172 application fee + CA$85 biometrics fee).

If you miss the deadline, your ITA will expire. You will have to wait for another round of invitations and hope your profile is selected to receive another ITA.

In the meantime, your future employer must submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay the employer compliance fee (CA$230).

Step 4

Within 24-48 hours of submitting your application, you will receive a biometrics instruction letter (BIL) to explain how to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

You have 30 days to book an appointment and go to a biometrics collection point with your passport and BIL.

Step 5

The Government of Canada will review your International Co-op work permit application once the biometric data is received.

A final decision (application approved or refused) will be made within eight weeks (for up-to-date info, see Check processing times).

If your application is approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction that you will need to show when you arrive in Canada.