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IRCC Extends Policy for International Experience Canada: Get Your Work Permit from Within Canada

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > IRCC Extends Policy for International Experience Canada: Get Your Work Permit from Within Canada

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended a crucial policy for International Experience Canada (IEC) participants, allowing foreign nationals to receive subsequent work permits from within Canada. This extension provides more flexibility and convenience for youth already working in Canada, removing the need to leave the country to activate a new permit.

What the Policy Extension Means for IEC Participants

Previously, IEC participants had to exit Canada—for example, returning to their home country or entering the U.S.—to receive their next work permit. Since the ban on flagpoling on December 23, 2024, applicants could no longer rely on re-entering Canada or using nearby territories like St. Pierre and Miquelon to activate permits.

With the policy extended as of February 10, 2026, eligible applicants can now:

  • Be physically present in Canada.

  • Hold a current IEC work permit.

  • Have received a Letter of Introduction (LOI) for their subsequent IEC work permit.

Applicants must submit a request using the IRCC web form before their LOI expires, including mandatory texts provided by IRCC:

Text 1 – general information with application number, current contact info, and LOI validity.
Text 2 – depending on your program:

  • Young Professionals or International Co-op: Confirm employer details and intent to start work immediately.

  • Working Holiday: Confirm circumstances remain unchanged to meet program requirements.

This policy significantly improves convenience for IEC participants, especially those participating in multiple years of the program.

Who Can Participate in International Experience Canada

The IEC program allows youth from 36 countries with bilateral agreements to work in Canada temporarily. Eligibility depends on:

  • Citizenship of a participating country.

  • Age requirements (18–35 or 18–30 depending on the country).

  • Meeting program-specific requirements and Canada’s general admissibility rules.

Some countries allow multiple lifetime participations, while others permit only one. Due to high demand in certain countries, IRCC manages applications via a lottery system, issuing invitations randomly to eligible candidates in rounds.

Current Participating Countries and Limits

Country Age Limit Maximum Lifetime Participations
Australia 35 3
France 35 3
Japan 30 2
United Kingdom 35 2
… … …

For a full list of countries and limits, refer to the official IRCC IEC Resources.

Why This Policy Matters

This extension ensures skilled youth can continue working in Canada without disruption, providing stability for both employers and employees. It also streamlines processes for those aiming to transition from temporary work permits to permanent residency, supporting long-term career and life goals in Canada.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but ICC Immigration offers expert guidance to help you achieve your Permanent Residency (PR) goals. Here’s how we can help:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: From Express Entry to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), ICC Immigration ensures your PR application is handled efficiently and accurately.

  • Work Permits and Study Permits: We guide you through temporary permits that can lead to long-term residency, including IEC work permits.

  • Family Sponsorships: Reunite with family members in Canada and secure your PR status.

  • Expert Legal Advice: Our team ensures your application aligns with current regulations, maximizing your chances of approval.

Instead of relying on uncertain pathways like asylum, ICC Immigration helps you take control of your future in Canada with a clear, secure path to PR. Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your immigration journey, our experienced team is ready to support you at every step.

Key Takeaways for IEC Participants

  1. IEC participants can now receive subsequent work permits from inside Canada.

  2. The policy extension is valid until further notice.

  3. Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria and submit the required IRCC web form texts.

  4. ICC Immigration can help you leverage this policy and explore pathways to permanent residency in Canada.