Where can Canadians go via International Experience Canada (IEC)?

Jackson

Article

07-07-2025

Where can Canadians go via International Experience Canada (IEC)?

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Article Summary

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a fantastic program that lets young Canadians explore and work in over 30 countries, mainly in Europe, Oceania, and East Asia. Here’s what you need to know:
- IEC offers a working holiday category, allowing you to work and travel, with some countries offering stays up to four years.
- Participants are typically aged 18-35 and can work in any job to fund their travels, though work shouldn't be the primary purpose of the visit.
- Additional visa categories like Young Professionals and Co-op Internships are available under IEC, offering different types of work authorizations.
- Benefits for Pvtistes: Special offers include free luggage allowances on certain flights and a free first international money transfer with Wise.
Curious about turning travel into an enriching life experience? Dive deeper into the perks and possibilities of IEC on our full article! Show more

What is International Experience Canada?

International Experience Canada, abbreviated as IEC, is an international mobility program created by the Canadian government that allows young Canadians the opportunity to obtain a temporary residence visa or permit in partner countries. The same program also allows foreigners to come to Canada.

Most of Canada’s bilateral accords are signed with countries in Europe, Oceania, and East Asia. As of now, Canadians have access to more than 30 countries, and the list is still growing!

All IEC destinations offer the working holiday category, which is the most popular and flexible, but certain destinations also offer other visa categories tailored to youth mobility.

Readers of pvtistes.net can get a free 23 kg checked bag for flights to France and Europe, or a free 40 kg checked bag for flights to Australia and New Zealand.

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

Participating countries welcome Canadians who are 18-35 years old to spend a set period of time there, most commonly one or two years, but sometimes up to three (the United Kingdom and Australia) or even four (South Korea). During this time, they have open work authorization, meaning they can take up any job they want. The purpose of this visa is to allow you to self-finance your experiences as you travel and discover a new culture.

Though you have the right to work, you are certainly not obligated to. In fact, most agreements stipulate that employment should not be the primary motive of your working holiday.

Check out all WHV destinations available to Canadians.

Most destinations require you to purchase private health insurance. We’ve been recommending Globe WHV insurance since 2005. Jackson got this when he moved from Vancouver to Paris on a working holiday!

What are the other IEC categories?

In addition to the working holiday category, some IEC destinations offer other visa categories, including: Young professionals, Inter-university Exchange, and Co-op Internship. These categories are more restrictive with regards to work authorization.

You may be able to participate in more than one category for certain countries. Learn more about the other categories by visiting the official IEC website.

Wise is offering pvtistes.net members a free first international money transfer of up to £3,000 or the equivalent. Your Wise account will allow you to easily send, receive, and pay in the local currency.

Jackson

I'm a web writer at pvtistes.net. In February 2023 I moved from Vancouver to Paris. Adventures await.
Je suis rédacteur web chez pvtistes.net. En février 2023 j’ai déménagé de Vancouver à Paris. Des aventures m’attendent.