Complete Guide To The IEC Working Holiday Program

IEC is a program that aids young people from different countries to come and work in Canada. This is one of the ways through which the Canadian government is encouraging exchange programs and giving opportunities to the young generation from different parts of the world. IEC is open to citizens of 35 participating countries and includes three distinct categories:

• Working Holiday: Offers the option of open work permits for the participants to work for any employer in the country. This category is for those who want to travel and look for a temporary job to be able to sustain their trip.

• Young Professionals: Provides employer-specific work permits for career enhancement, which shall be supported by a job offer in Canada that will help in the participant’s skills advancement.

• International Co-op (Internship): Offers student work permits for employment to the employer during the course of study of the student.

Overview Of The Working Holiday Program

The Working Holiday Program is a plan that allows people from one country to travel to another country to engage in holiday activities and take up some form of employment.

Thus, the Working Holiday subcategory of IEC is most preferred by young people. It offers an open work permit enabling the participant to work for any employer of their choice in Canada while enjoying the Canadian scenery through temporary working.

This category is perfect if you:

• No job offer.

• Interested in doing employment with more than one employer in Canada.

• Wish to work in different places.

• Are a person who has a dream to travel and wants to make money to finance your trips.

When you apply for a Working Holiday visa, you get an open work permit. This permit lets you work for almost any employer in Canada, with the exception of those who:

• Are declared as non-compliant with the regulations and therefore barred from the list.

• From time to time, provide services of striptease, erotic dance, escort, or erotic massage.

Medical Exam Requirements

It is required to have a medical check-up for some positions. You need to get a medical exam if:

• In the last six months, you have either resided or visited certain countries/territories.

• You plan to work in:

• The health sector.

• Primary or secondary education.

• Child care.

• Elderly care.

You have to see a doctor who is on the list of panel doctors recognized by the IRCC. Once your exam is done, you will be provided a printout or an IMM 1017B Upfront Medical Report form. This document should be uploaded to your application in the “Proof of medical exam” section. If this section is missing, the “Optional documents” slot located at the bottom of the checklist can be used.

If this step is not done, your application may be refused or your work permit may contain conditions that make you unable to work in occupations that demand medical examination.

If you are unable to take a medical examination before the application date then you can provide proof of appointment. The results of medical examinations are considered to be valid for 12 months, so it is better to wait for a receiving invitation and pass the test not to have the results expire.

Requirements For IEC Working Holiday

To participate in the IEC Working Holiday program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. Below are the key requirements:

Application Process

The application process for the IEC Working Holiday program involves several steps. Here's a detailed overview:

• Profile Creation and Pool Entry:

Create an online profile and enter the pool for your country and category. Pools typically open in December for the following year’s applications.

• Invitation to Apply (ITA):

Receive an ITA based on a random selection process. Once you receive the ITA, you have 20 days to accept it and submit your work permit application.

• Submit Application:

• Complete the online form truthfully and fully. Make sure to answer all questions, fill out mandatory fields, and provide complete work and education history.

• Upload required documents, including police certificates, medical exams, CV/résumé, passport copy, digital photo, and proof of residency (if applicable).

• Biometrics and Fees:

Pay the IEC participation fee (CAN $172 for 2024). If applicable, also pay the open work permit holder fee (CAN $100) and biometric fee.

• Work Permit Issuance:

If approved, receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. Present this letter upon arrival in Canada to obtain your work permit.

Important Deadlines

Applicants must adhere to specific deadlines throughout the application process:

Fees And Refunds

Different fees apply depending on the category and specific requirements of the applicant. Below is a summary of the fees and refund policies:

Refunds are available if you withdraw your application before the POE letter is issued or if your application is refused.

Conclusion

The IEC Working Holiday program is a perfect chance to work and travel in Canada at the same time. Through the requirements put in place that must be met to qualify as a participant, acquiring the right documents, and following the application procedure, the participants can take up an exciting program that combines work and travel. It is advisable to start preparing for the application process in advance to avoid many problems and inconveniences.