There’s a reason Canada is repeatedly voted one of the most liveable countries in the world. Boasting Nat Geo wildlife, snow-sprinkled peaks, ancient forests and endless adventures in the great outdoors (we could go on), there is simply nowhere else in the world quite like it.
This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, and as travel restrictions start to ease, we’re helping intrepid travellers (that’s you) live the Canadian dream. From applying for a Canada Working Holiday Visa – the correct name (to be technical) being the Working Holiday permit (or IEC work permit) – to different types of work in Canada, discover everything you need to know about living and working in Canada in 2022 (including why you should apply now and not wait until the last minute…).
Great, so you’ve decided to move to the land of maple syrup and ice hockey.
First things first, you’ll need to get a Canada work visa (the IEC work permit). Canada has an agreement with over 30 countries through the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This program allows travellers between the age of 18 – 30 or 35 the opportunity to work in Canada (the age limit will depend on your nationality).
Check to see whether you’re eligible for the IEC work permit on our Canada Working Holiday Visa requirements page.
If you are eligible you can create a profile under the IEC program. If you are selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), which will allow you to get a working holiday visa.
All IEC countries have specific quotas, and some will have it easier than others.
Some countries have higher quotas, making it easier to secure a working holiday visa for Canada (like Australia, which has an unlimited number of visas available!). However, some countries have smaller quotas and huge demand. Regardless of your country, you will not get an invitation if you are not part of the pool, so make sure you enter as soon as possible to increase your chances!
If you are looking into any of our Working Holiday Programs in Canada, we recommend you start applying sooner rather than later.
Why you should apply for your IEC Work visa with enough time:
Plus, if you’re super lucky and get your working holiday permit approved very early, there’s no need to worry as you will have 12 months to travel to Canada after your work permit is approved.
This won’t be necessary, as Canada has already opened for fully vaccinated travellers.
While a job offer might not be necessary to enter, looking for work in Canada – from ‘Canadianizing’ your resume to knowing where to apply – can be daunting, which is where we come in…
The majority of the Stepwest team originally moved to Canada on a working holiday. We know the struggle, which is why we secure all of our participants a job, accommodation and continual support throughout the process. You can land on Canadian soil bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, having received:
If you have the POE letter but aren’t able to make it out before it runs out, you’re in luck.
From July 30, 2021, eligible participants are able to request one final 12-month extension for their POE letters. Participants can take advantage of this measure until December 31, 2021.
You are eligible to request one final 12-month extension if your POE or approval letter was issued between January 1, 2019, and April 30, 2020 (learn more about it on the Government of Canada website here).
Book a FREE consultation with our team to learn how we can help you make the most of your work experience in Canada during your Working Holiday!