[Published
02 Feb, 2026 | 06:35 AM]
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The International Experience Canada (IEC) 2026 season is now officially open, offering young individuals a valuable pathway to live and work in Canada.
Each year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issues more than 90,000 IEC work permits to candidates from over 35 partner countries, making IEC one of the most popular youth mobility programs worldwide.
For 2026, applicants can choose from key categories such as Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op, with invitation rounds conducted regularly throughout the season.
Check Eligibility for Canada PR!
Due to country-specific quotas and high competition, early profile submission significantly improves selection chances for those seeking a Canadian work permit in 2026.
International Experience Canada (IEC) is a Canadian government program that allows young people from eligible partner countries to live and work in Canada for a limited period. Managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
However, IEC offers work permits under categories such as Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op, enabling participants to gain international work experience while exploring Canada.
International Experience Canada (IEC) allows young individuals from eligible countries to live and work in Canada for a limited period. Interested candidates first create an online IEC profile and choose a category: Working Holiday, Young Professionals, or International Co-op.
Once submitted, the profile enters a pool specific to the applicant’s country and category.
Throughout the season, IRCC conducts random invitation rounds. Candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) must submit a complete work permit application, including required documents, biometrics, and fees.
Approved applicants receive a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction, which allows them to obtain their Canadian work permit upon arrival.
The 2026 IEC season schedule outlines key dates for profile submission, invitation rounds, and work permit applications
| Country | Working Holiday | Young Professionals | International Co-op (Internship) |
| Andorra | 24 | - | - |
| Australia | Undefined | 50 | 17 |
| Austria | 160 | 10 | 4 |
| Belgium | 725 | - | - |
| Chile | 700 | 20 | 5 |
| Costa Rica | 80 | 15 | 2 |
| Croatia | 82 | 10 | 5 |
| Czech Republic | 512 | 160 | 5 |
| Denmark | 266 | - | - |
| Estonia | 100 | 16 | 5 |
| Finland | 120 | 15 | 10 |
| France | 5,661 | 1,900 | 2,790 |
| Greece | 130 | 58 | 5 |
| Hong Kong | 193 | - | - |
| Iceland | 48 | - | - |
| Ireland | 2,735 | 48 | 20 |
| Italy | 1,850 | 60 | 23 |
| Korea, Republic | 10,239 | 200 | 50 |
| Latvia, Republic | 40 | 5 | 3 |
| Lithuania | 180 | 10 | 3 |
| Luxembourg | 42 | 3 | 3 |
| Netherlands | 500 | 80 | - |
| Poland | 310 | 100 | 4 |
| San Marino | 24 | - | - |
| Slovakia | 220 | 41 | 5 |
| Slovenia | 33 | 10 | 5 |
| Spain | 857 | 100 | 5 |
| Taiwan | 907 | 55 | 5 |
| United Kingdom | 9,330 | 322 | 15 |
Creating an International Experience Canada (IEC) profile is the first step toward applying for a Canadian work permit and exploring opportunities to immigrate to Canada. The entire process is completed online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Steps to Create an IEC Profile
Once your profile is submitted, you can remain in the IEC pool for the season and receive an invitation based on availability, country quotas, and random selection.
Source: canada.ca
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