- Can I apply to the IEC program right now?
You can create your IEC profile and put your profile in the pool only when the season is open. You can check the status through the rounds of invitations. To join the Go International Canada Working Holiday Program Non-Sponsored, you can book the program anytime before your planned arrival to receive assistance from us. We can accept applications for RO-Sponsored only if we have availability.
- When will the next pool draw take place?
The rounds of invitation usually take place every week. Check the rounds of invitation schedule.
- What does the typical RO application process with Go International look like?
1. Please fill out our application form and return it including a copy of your passport.
2. If we have a spot for you, we will issue your invoice.
3. Create an IEC and send us your Welcome to the Pool Letter.
4. As soon as we have received your payment in full and Pool Letter, we will put forward your name during the next round of nominations.
5. After your nomination, you will receive your RO Support Letter. You will need our RO Support Letter to complete your visa application.
6. When your application has been processed and approved, you will receive your POE Letter (application approval). From the date of your POE Letter, you will have one year to activate your work permit.
7. You will have to travel to a Port of Entry (e.g. arrival at airport) to activate your visa. Depending on your circumstance, you may be able to receive your new work permit by mail. Your work permit will be issued as a separate document.
- How much time do I have to submit my visa online application?
You will have 10 days to accept your invitation to apply (ITA) and 20 days to submit your application.
- I’m still missing documents to submit my application, but my application deadline is approaching soon. What should I do?
The most common issue is that you have not received your police certificate yet. Instead, you can upload a confirmation that you have applied for your police certificate. IRCC should then grant you a deadline extension.
- How long does it take until my application has been approved?
This depends on how long you take to submit your visa application and IRCC processing time. The standard processing time is 5 weeks. We cannot guarantee an exact start date since processing times are impacted by factors we cannot influence.
- How much time do I have to activate my work permit?
You will have one year from the date of your POE letter to activate your work permit – the exact expiry date is written on your POE letter.
- When is the best time to apply for the program?
The IEC Program is offered each year over a specific period (season). Usually, the season starts Dec-Jan and ends around October. However, IRCC decides the exact time frame every season. Our RO-Sponsored program is usually sold out very quickly since we only receive a very limited amount of spots. Therefore, we recommend to check in with us at the beginning of each season.
- What happens if my visa application is rejected?
Please make sure that you submit a complete and correct application before the deadline mentioned in your profile. We won’t be refunding your program fees if your work permit application is rejected due to your own negligence or due to fraudulent reasons.
- I’m having difficulties logging into my GCKey profile. What should I do?
Unfortunately, there are some common errors and issues that IEC participants are experiencing when trying to log into their profile to complete their application (e.g., looping you back to the login page). IRCC frequently updates their system and therefore, recommends to clear your browser cache if an error occurs. Other tips include using the private or incognito mode of your browser or trying another browser or device altogether. If you consistently experience issues and complete your application, please send a message to IRCC through the web form.