IEC 2020 pools were scheduled to open December 9 but were delayed due to technical issues. The IEC 2020 pools are now open for applicants.
The 2020 International Experience Canada (IEC) pools are open to young adults who wish to live and work in Canada on a temporary basis. IEC is run by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the IEC program allows people to experience Canada and can be the first step toward becoming a permanent resident.
IEC selects candidates in three categories:
1. IEC Co-Op Internship
Student co-op internship participants receive a Canada Work Permit and is for someone in graduate school who has a written job offer for an IRCC approved position that is related to their field of studies.
2. IEC Young Professionals
Educated foreign young adults can get Canadian work experience through IEC Young Professionals, a Work Permit program for young adults with a post-secondary degree.
3. IEC Working Holiday Program
Working Holiday participants receive Open Work Permits that allow them to work anywhere in the host country to support their travels.
How to Apply for IEC 2020
- Find out if you’re eligible for one of the 3 IEC programs by answering some questions
- Create a free International Experience Canada profile to create your online application
- Submit your profile to IEC to see what pools you qualify for in 2020
- If you’re invited to apply for IEC 2020, you will get a message in your online account
- To participate in IEC, you most likely will need to give your biometrics, which may require travel to another city and or country.
IEC has created this infographic explaining the application process:
There are several options to stay in Canada after your IEC visa expires: I'm On a Working Holiday Visa - How Can I Stay Longer in Canada? You must apply for a new visa or work permit at minimum 30 days before your current visa's expiration date. The options vary depending on your qualifications and country of origin. An immigration professional can asses your eligibility and the different immigration programs available to you, and guide you in your journey to stay in Canada longer. Contact Ackah Law to book a consultation with an immigration professional.
