The International Co-op (Internship) IEC work permit!

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

Step 1

At any point during an IEC season (usually late fall to end of summer the following year), create a free Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) secure account.

Then, you have to create a profile and submit it to a “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.” “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 an Invitation to Apply, 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, scanning supporting documents and paying the fees (CAN$246 in total, CAN$161 application fee + CAN$85 biometrics fee).

If you miss the deadline, you will lose your spot. You will have to wait for another round of invitations and another Invitation to Apply to be issued.

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

Step 4

Within 24 hours of submitting your application, you will receive a biometric 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 biometrics data is received.

A final decision (application approved or refused) will be made within 8 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 land in Canada.