In a significant update for young foreign nationals in Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has simplified the process for International Experience Canada (IEC) participants to continue working in the country. This move benefits thousands of individuals who wish to remain employed in Canada after their current IEC work permit expires.
Whether you’re in Canada on a Working Holiday, Young Professionals, or International Co-op (Internship) permit, this update may offer a smoother path to extend your stay and employment opportunities.
What Is the IEC Program?
International Experience Canada (IEC) is a popular program that allows young adults from over 30 partner countries to live and work in Canada for up to two years. It includes three streams:
- Working Holiday – Open work permit
- Young Professionals – Employer-specific work permit
- International Co-op – Employer-specific internship permit
What’s New in 2025?
As of May 2025, IRCC now allows IEC participants who are already in Canada and wish to change jobs or employers to apply for a new work permit without leaving the country.
Key updates include:
- IEC participants can now apply for another employer-specific work permit from inside Canada.
- IRCC will process applications faster under this updated procedure.
- Applicants can stay in Canada under maintained status while waiting for their new permit.
Read More: Thunder Bay Announces Designated Employers for RCIP Permanent Residency Pathway
Who Can Benefit from This Change?
This new policy is especially helpful for:
- Working Holiday participants whose permits are expiring
- Young Professionals wishing to switch employers
- International Co-op students who completed their internships and want to work with another employer
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must:
- Be a current IEC participant in Canada
- Have valid temporary resident status
- Have a job offer from a new Canadian employer (if applying for an employer-specific permit)
- Apply before your current permit expires
Steps to Apply for a New Work Permit
- Secure a New Job Offer: If you’re changing employers, get a formal offer.
- Check LMIA Requirements: Most IEC streams don’t require an LMIA, but confirm with your new employer.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through your IRCC account.
- Stay Legally: Remain in Canada on maintained status while waiting.
Why This Matters
This update is a big win for foreign youth in Canada, offering more flexibility and avoiding the stress of having to leave and re-enter Canada. It also helps Canadian employers retain international talent more efficiently.
How Millennium Immigration Can Help
At Millennium Immigration, we provide expert support to:
- IEC participants applying for work permit extensions
- Youth navigating employer-specific permit changes
- Employers hiring international workers
- Individuals exploring permanent residency pathways post-IEC
Conclusion
With IRCC’s new policy, IEC participants in Canada have more control and flexibility over their work status. If you’re unsure how to proceed, Millennium Immigration is here to simplify the process and help you stay compliant.