Imagine living in Greece, bartending in Australia, teaching English in Japan, or working in a winery in New Zealand – all while legally working, earning money, and experiencing a new culture. Sounds too good to be true?
If you’re a Canadian aged 18 to 35, this is not a dream. It’s called International Experience Canada (IEC) – and it might just be Canada’s best-kept travel secret for youth.
What is the IEC Program?
International Experience Canada (IEC) is a Government of Canada initiative that offers young Canadians the opportunity to live, work, and travel abroad in over 30 countries. It’s part of a youth mobility agreement with partner countries that allows for reciprocal travel and employment opportunities.
IEC includes three program streams:
- Working Holiday – Get an open work permit to fund your travels through short-term or seasonal work.
- Young Professionals – Gain career-related experience with a job offer in your field.
- International Co-op (Internship) – For post-secondary students looking to complete an international work placement.
Why is IEC a Game-Changer?
Unlike typical gap years or vacations, the IEC program allows Canadians to fully immerse themselves in another country – working, living, travelling and building real-life experiences.
Here’s what makes it special:
- You get to live like a local – not just as a tourist.
- You can work legally, earn money, and support your travels.
- You build international career experience that looks amazing on a resume.
- You form lifelong friendships with people from around the globe.
- You get to see the world and life changing travel.
Where Can Canadians Go with IEC?
Some of the most popular IEC destinations include:
- Australia – surf, serve, and soak up the sun
- New Zealand – work on a vineyard or in tourism
- Japan – immerse yourself in tradition and teach
- Germany – experience rich culture and dynamic cities
- Ireland – pub culture meets scenic cliffs
- France – learn French and live in the heart of Europe
- South Korea – teach, travel, and explore a vibrant culture
- Greece – sun-drenched beaches, ancient ruins and bold, flavorful cuisine
Each country has its own rules, age limits, and visa quotas – so it’s important to research early.
Why Haven’t I Heard of This?
Many Canadians don’t discover the IEC program until it’s too late – when they’ve already aged out or missed a country’s visa quota.
That’s why Go International is on a mission to spread the word and help Canadian youth make the most of this unique window of opportunity.
How Go International Can Help
Go International is a recognized organization under the IEC program. We support Canadians through the entire process, including:
- Helping you apply and get your visa
- Offering pre-departure guidance
- Providing job placement assistance abroad
- Supporting you with accommodation, insurance, and arrival orientations
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a young professional looking to gain global experience, we make it easier to get going.
Ready to take the leap?
Start your adventure abroad today! Explore our Work and Travel destinations and take the first step toward the experience of a lifetime!
Our team is always here for you, so don’t hesitate to contact us today to start planning your Working Holiday abroad.