36 countries can now participate in International Experience Canada 2026
Who May Apply?
With flexible, short-term work permits, Canada has launched the 2026 International Experience Canada season, enabling young visitors from 36 countries to live and work in the country.
Another generation of young travelers has been quietly welcomed by Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that the 2026 season of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program is now formally open.
This is one of the easiest ways to live, work, and travel in Canada for up to two years if you are between the ages of 18 and 35 and have a passport from one of the qualifying nations.
Here's how it all works and what counts most.
International Experience Canada (IEC): What Is It?
IEC, or International Experience Canada, is a youth mobility initiative. It permits young individuals from partner nations to travel to Canada while on a temporary work permit.
The concept is straightforward. Instead of just being a tourist, work a little, travel a lot, and get a taste of Canadian living.
IEC is not a place to live permanently. Although it is a short-term program, many people use it as a springboard for longer-term solutions.
In 2026, who is eligible to apply for IEC?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is open to you if:
You are a national of one of the 36 qualifying nations.
Depending on your country, you are between the ages of 18 and 30 or 18 and 35.
You fulfill the prerequisites for basic character, health, and finances.
Every nation has its own regulations, work permit duration, and quotas. While some might get up to 24 months, others might only get 12 months.
An explanation of the three IEC categories To put it simply, IEC has three distinct streams. Not everyone is eligible to apply for all three.
1. A holiday for work
This is the most widely used choice.
An open work permit is granted to you.
In Canada, you can work for practically any company.
You don't need a job offer to apply.
It is perfect if you wish to travel between jobs, work seasonally, or have flexibility.
2. International Cooperation (Internship)
Students might choose this option.
You must be enrolled in a postsecondary educational program.
Your topic of study must be relevant to the position.
You obtain a work permit tailored to your employer.
For paid internships or work placements, this is frequently utilized.
3. Young Experts
This is for candidates who are focused on their careers.
Before applying, you must receive a job offer.
Your education or career path must align with the position.
You obtain a work permit tailored to your employer.
It is appropriate for those seeking organized job experience in Canada.
How the IEC Application Procedure Operates
There is no first-come, first-served policy for the International Experience Canada (IEC) procedure. Pools and invitations are how it operates.
The fundamental steps are as follows:
Select your IEC category after creating an online profile.
Enter your country's pool.
During the season, Canada sends out sporadic invitations.
You submit a complete application and supporting documentation if you are invited.
You get a Port of Entry Letter after being accepted.
When you get to Canada, you activate your work permit.
Until all nation quotas are reached, invites are sent out in rounds.
List of All 36 Countries Eligible for the IEC
In 2026, citizens of the following nations may apply for IEC:
Andorra
Australia
Belgium and Austria
Chile
The Costa Rican
Croatia
Denmark and the Czech Republic
Estonia
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Iceland
Italy, Japan, Ireland
Latvia
Lithuania and Luxembourg
Mexico and the Netherlands
The New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
The San Marino
Slovakia
The South Korean
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Kingdom
It is important to note that age restrictions, quotas, and accessible categories may vary by nation. Before applying, it's crucial to review the particular requirements for your nationality.
The Significance of IEC for Travelers
One of the simplest legal methods to work overseas without employer sponsorship or complicated paperwork is still through International Experience Canada (IEC).
For tourists, this means:
Actual earnings when traveling throughout Canada
Experience working locally
An opportunity to see Canadian living before making more ambitious goals
It is also the start of longer immigration journeys for many.
The Last Word
Pools are already open for the 2026 International Experience Canada (IEC) season. This is a window worth keeping an eye on if Canada is on your radar and you meet the passport and age requirements.
There aren't many spots available. Invitations are sent out at random. And the season ends quietly once quotas are reached.
Apply early and be prepared if you're serious.
