The Working Holiday Permit (WHP): Work and travel in Canada
The Working Holiday Permit is one of the most popular categories of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. It allows young adults, typically aged 18 to 35 depending on their country of citizenship, to enjoy an immersive experience in Canada by combining temporary work with cultural exploration.
This open work permit offers great flexibility: participants can work for any employer, in any province or territory, without needing a job offer beforehand.
What is the Working Holiday Permit?
This International Experience Canada (IEC) category attracts thousands of young people each year who want to fund their stay while discovering the country. Jobs are often seasonal or in sectors such as hospitality, food service, tourism, or agriculture. However, some participants manage to secure more qualified positions depending on their profile and network.
The WHP is therefore a gateway to the Canadian job market, as well as an opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Eligibility requirements for the WHP:
To be eligible, the applicant must meet several conditions:
- Be a citizen of a partner country,
- Hold a valid passeport,
- Have at least CAD $2,500 in available funds,
- Purchase health and repatriation insurance covering the entire stay.
Once registered in the pool, the applicant must:
- Wait for an invitation to apply,
- Submit the required documents,
- Pay the fees: CAD $279.75 for the work permit and CAD $85 for biometrics.
Upon arrival in Canada, the letter of introduction allows the participant to activate their permit.
What are the benefits for employers?
From an employer’s perspective, the WHP is a simple and fast solution to hire motivated young workers, as it requires no involvement in the application process.
Although the permit is temporary, it can effectively meet labor needs in high-demand sectors or during peak seasons.
In conclusion:
The Working Holiday Permit is a win-win formula for young people seeking a meaningful international experience and for Canadian employers looking for adaptable and motivated temporary workers.