Young People From 30 Countries Can Apply

Canada’s Working Holiday Visa is becoming a popular way for young people to travel, work, and explore the country—all at the same time. If you’ve heard about it and want to know how it works, this guide will walk you through the essentials and show you how to apply successfully.

Main Points to Know About Canada’s Working Holiday Visa

• Young people from 30 eligible countries can visit and work in Canada through the Working Holiday category.
• The process has three main steps: enter the pool, receive an invitation, and enter Canada after approval.
• Your Canadian work experience can later support a permanent residence application through Express Entry.
• You must buy valid health insurance before entering Canada. Without proper coverage, officers may shorten your work permit.
• The total cost of applying is CAD $357, which includes application, open work permit, and biometrics fees.

What Is the IEC Working Holiday Visa?

The Working Holiday Visa is part of Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) program. It lets young people from partner countries get an open work permit for 12–24 months (varies by country).

This permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada, travel freely, and gain professional experience.
To get started, you must create an online profile, which alerts IRCC that you want to join the Working Holiday pool. If you receive an invitation, you can continue with the full application and eventually work in Canada.

Who Can Apply?

Only citizens of countries that have an IEC agreement with Canada can join the Working Holiday pool.
To check the full list, visit IRCC’s official website or contact us for guidance.

How to Get a Working Holiday Visa: Step-by-Step

1. Create Your Profile

Start by creating your IEC profile on the IRCC website. This puts your name into the pool of applicants for your country.

2. Enter the Pool

Canada uses a lottery-style draw system to select applicants. You enter the pool for your nationality and visa category, for example:

• Country: France
• Category: Working Holiday

Each pool has a limited number of spots, so applying early improves your chances.

3. Wait for Your Invitation

IRCC holds regular draws throughout the year. The earlier you enter, the more rounds you are considered in.
Before the final draw of the season, IRCC gives at least five days’ notice.

4. Submit Your Application

If you receive an invitation, you must submit your forms, biometrics, and fees within the given timeline.

5. Travel to Canada

Once approved, you can travel to Canada and activate your Working Holiday Open Work Permit at the border.

Final Tips

Apply early, stay updated, and understand how the draw system works to improve your chances.
If you need help preparing your IEC profile or understanding eligibility, feel free to reach out to us—we’re here to help you make your Canadian adventure a reality.

Get in touch with us

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).