What is the Canadian Working Holiday Visa?
A key component of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, the Working Holiday Visa is intended for young people, primarily students or recent graduates, who want to gain job experience and immerse themselves in Canadian culture.
It’s a special opportunity to work while traveling to some of Canada’s most famous locations. Your home country must have an exchange agreement with Canada or be involved with a Recognized Organization (RO) in order to be eligible for this visa.
For a little price, these ROs are invaluable in helping job seekers with their job searches and application processes. Distinguished companies consist of:
Stepwest International SWAP Working Holidays
You get a “Open Work Permit” with this visa, which lets you enter Canada and look for work without restriction.
For people who are eager to work for different firms across Canada but do not have a predetermined employment offer, the Working Holiday Visa is ideal. It gives you the freedom to work and travel anywhere in the nation for a maximum of one year.
Application Process for the Canadian Working Holiday Visa
The application process, though thorough, is straightforward. Here’s a breakdown:
Create an International Experience Canada Profile:
Using your GCKey or banking information, create an account on the official Government of Canada website first.
Fill out the eligibility questionnaire.
Provide your contact information, travel itinerary, passport data, and personal information on the profile forms.
Recall that the initial submission needs to be completed within 60 days, although a comprehensive resume is not required.
Enter the Applicant Pool:
Become a member of the Working Holiday Visa application pool by using the IEC Program.
Although you could be qualified for more than one pool, it is not permitted to duplicate in the same category.
The profile is live for a full year or season.
Receive an Invitation to Apply:
Candidates from the pool are occasionally invited by the Canadian government.
You will be notified if you are chosen, and you have ten days to accept or reject.
Refusing to accept keeps you in the running for more rounds.
Apply for a Work Permit:
You will have 20 days after being accepted to apply for a work permit.
Complete all required paperwork, noting “Non-applicable – Working Holiday” for the employer’s address and “A999999” for the job offer number.
Police certifications, a CV or résumé, a health examination, a passport, and a digital photo are among the necessary paperwork.
Pay Fees and Submit Application:
There are two fees: CAD$100 for International Experience Canada and CAD$100 for the holder of an open work permit. If necessary, there is also a CAD$85 biometrics cost.
After making your payment, submit your application.
Receive your PoE Letter and Travel to Canada:
You will receive a Port of Entry (PoE) letter upon approval.
Make sure you have the necessary paperwork with you, including the PoE letter, evidence of funding, health insurance, and a return ticket or money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to obtain a work permit in Canada? A: The processing time for a Canadian work visa is approximately nine weeks. For skilled trades and workers applying through the Express Entry system, the time varies from 21 to 47 months.
Q: What is the cost of applying for a Canadian working holiday visa? A: The total cost includes CAD$100 for International Experience Canada, CAD$100 for the Open Work Permit Holder, and an additional CAD$85 for biometrics if required.
