Recognized Organizations in Canada (SWAP, Languages Canada...)

What is a recognized organization (RO)?

ROs offer various paid services and represent an alternative way of obtaining an IEC permit to Canada without going through the traditional lottery system. For example, you might pay a few thousand dollars to an RO to take language classes in Canada, and as a part of this paid service, the RO also guarantees you an IEC permit.

This is the list of recognized organizations, and they are all endorsed by the government of Canada. Any company that is not on this list is NOT a recognized organization, despite whatever promises they might make.

Be extremely cautious of dishonest websites. The only way to obtain an IEC permit is via a recognized organization or by yourself via the lottery process on www.canada.ca.

Whom are ROs most relevant to?

ROs’ services can be expensive, so they are not necessary or possible for everyone. Here are the people that it would be of interest to:

Those who already participated in IEC twice the traditional way (or once, if that is the standard allowance for your nationality), and want to participate once more. This is because a participation via a RO does not count towards the lifetime limit.
Those who are older than 30 years and therefore no longer qualify under their country’s normal IEC age criterion. ROs accept applicants up to 35 years old (inclusive), regardless of nationality.
Those who want to boost their chances of getting an IEC invitation, as for some nationalities the classic lottery system is very competitive. You are allowed to register for the regular IEC pool and in parallel also try to secure a spot via a RO.
Those who want the services provided by a RO. Services available include language courses, professional training, and job opportunities.

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FAQ

Do I have to go through a RO to participate in IEC?

If your country of citizenship already has an IEC agreement with Canada and you meet the conditions, then no you don’t have to use a RO. This is just an additional option for the profiles described above.

The US doesn’t have an IEC agreement with Canada, but Americans can participate in IEC via certain ROs.

If I go with a RO, am I guaranteed a spot?

Unfortunately no. This is because ROs have very limited spots and they are taken very quickly at the start of the IEC season. You may be added to an RO’s waitlist, but that’s no promise you’ll be selected.

Can I enter the IEC pools but also register with an RO?

Yes, this will increase your chances of being invited to apply for an IEC permit. However, if you successfully secure a spot via a RO, you will just need to delete your profile from the pools and resubmit a new one. Your RO will provide you with instructions if you are successful.

Which nationalities qualify for RO?

In general, it’s the same 30+ countries that already have a youth mobility agreement with Canada. But there are small exceptions for certain ROs.

Do all ROs offer all IEC permit categories?

No. Some offer Working Holiday, while others offer Young Professional or International Co-op. Some offer all categories. Check on this website.

Do I need to pay to join an RO’s waitlist?

No. You won’t pay anything until you’re actually confirmed as a selected client.

How many spots do ROs have available?

It varies from RO to RO, but is generally a few hundred each.

Can I join the waitlist of more than one RO?

Yes. If you get selected by multiple, you can choose which one you prefer.

Where can I find all the ROs?

All the recognized organizations are listed on this official website. There are no other ROs than these.

How many times can I participate in IEC via a RO?

Just once. If you want to participate in IEC again, you must go through the regular IEC lottery process, assuming you still meet eligibility criteria.

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