Canada has announced an important update for International Experience Canada (IEC) participants. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended a policy that allows eligible foreign nationals to receive subsequent work permits without leaving Canada. This change provides greater convenience and flexibility for youth already working in the country, eliminating the need to travel abroad to activate a new permit.

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What the Policy Extension Means for IEC Participants

Previously, IEC participants had to leave Canada—often returning to their home country or nearby territories like the U.S. or St. Pierre and Miquelon—to receive their next work permit. This process, known as “flagpoling,” was banned on December 23, 2024, leaving applicants with limited options for activating new permits. With the policy extension effective from February 10, 2026, eligible participants can now:
  • Remain physically present in Canada while applying.
  • Hold a current IEC work permit.
  • Have received a Letter of Introduction (LOI) for their next IEC work permit.
Applicants must submit their request through the IRCC web form before their LOI expires. The submission requires two sets of information:
  1. General Information: Including application number, contact details, and LOI validity.
  2. Program-Specific Details:
    • Young Professionals or International Co-op: Confirm employer details and readiness to start work immediately.
    • Working Holiday: Confirm that circumstances remain unchanged and continue to meet program requirements.
This update makes it much easier for participants, particularly those taking part in multiple years of the IEC program, to continue working without interruption.

Who Can Participate in International Experience Canada

The IEC program allows youth from 36 countries to work temporarily in Canada under bilateral agreements. Eligibility depends on:
  • Citizenship of a participating country.
  • Age requirements (usually 18–35, some countries 18–30).
  • Meeting program-specific requirements and Canada’s general admissibility rules.
Some countries allow multiple participations over a lifetime, while others permit only one. High-demand countries use a lottery system, with invitations issued randomly in rounds to eligible candidates.

Current Participating Countries and Program Limits

Country Age Limit Maximum Lifetime Participations
Australia 35 3
France 35 3
Japan 30 2
United Kingdom 35 2
For a complete list of countries and specific participation limits, applicants should refer to the official IRCC IEC resources.

Why This Policy Matters

This policy extension ensures youth can continue working in Canada without disruptions, providing stability for both employees and employers. It also streamlines the path for participants aiming to transition from temporary work permits to permanent residency, supporting long-term career and life planning in Canada. For employers, it means retaining skilled international workers without gaps in employment. For workers, it eliminates the stress and expense of traveling abroad just to renew a permit.

How ICC Immigration Can Help

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex. ICC Immigration offers expert guidance to help participants make the most of this policy and plan long-term in Canada:
  • Permanent Residency Applications: From Express Entry to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), ICC Immigration ensures accurate and efficient handling of PR applications.
  • Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance for temporary permits, including IEC work permits, that can lead to permanent residency.
  • Family Sponsorships: Help reunite with family members and secure PR status.
  • Expert Legal Advice: Ensures applications comply with current regulations, maximizing approval chances.
Instead of relying on uncertain pathways, ICC Immigration provides a clear and secure path toward long-term opportunities in Canada.

Key Takeaways for IEC Participants

  • Participants can now apply for subsequent work permits from inside Canada.
  • The policy extension is effective from February 10, 2026, and valid until further notice.
  • Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria and submit the required IRCC web form information.
  • ICC Immigration can help participants leverage this policy to continue working and explore permanent residency pathways in Canada.

Secure Your IEC Work Permit from Inside Canada!

Apical Immigration Experts can guide you through the process of applying for your next IEC work permit without leaving Canada. Get expert help to stay compliant, continue working smoothly, and explore pathways to permanent residency.