Poland Unites With Ireland, Mexico, Germany, South Korea, UK, And Other Sixty Countries In Accelerating Travel And Visa Opportunities As Canada Introduces 2026 International Experience Canada Program

Published on December 27, 2025

Poland, along with Ireland, Mexico, Germany, South Korea, the UK, and over sixty other countries, is accelerating travel and visa opportunities as Canada launches the 2026 International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This new season of the IEC program opens doors for young travelers from these nations to live, work, and explore Canada through flexible work permits, offering a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and career development. With its easy access and flexible options, the IEC program remains one of the most popular ways for youth to experience life in Canada.

Canada has officially opened its 2026 International Experience Canada (IEC) season, offering young travelers from over 60 countries a chance to live, work, and travel across the country through flexible, short-term work permits. This significant move builds on Canada’s longstanding tradition of welcoming young people from around the globe, offering them an opportunity to immerse themselves in Canadian culture while gaining invaluable work experience. The IEC program is widely regarded as one of the easiest legal pathways for international travelers seeking a working holiday in Canada. With its streamlined process and numerous benefits, it has become an essential part of Canada’s immigration and tourism strategy.

What is International Experience Canada (IEC)?

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a youth mobility program that allows young people, typically between the ages of 18 and 35, from partner countries to apply for a temporary work permit in Canada. The main goal of the IEC program is to provide young adults with a unique opportunity to explore Canada, work in various sectors, and enjoy the cultural richness the country offers, all while gaining valuable work experience.

For many, the IEC program is not just a way to spend time in Canada – it also serves as a stepping stone to longer-term immigration pathways. With its ease of access and minimal paperwork, it remains one of the most sought-after programs for young travelers worldwide.

Who Can Apply for IEC in 2026?

The eligibility criteria for applying to the IEC program vary depending on your nationality. Citizens of the 36 eligible countries between the ages of 18 to 35 are welcome to apply for work permits of up to two years. It’s important to note that each country may have specific age limits, quotas, and application details, which are provided on Canada’s official immigration website.

For instance, applicants from some countries may qualify for 12-month work permits, while others may be eligible for up to 24 months, depending on their agreements with Canada.

The Three IEC Categories

IEC offers three distinct categories for applicants, depending on their status and goals. Here is a breakdown of each option:

1. Working Holiday

This is the most popular stream, offering flexibility and freedom. With this open work permit, young travelers can work for almost any employer in Canada without needing a job offer prior to applying. It’s perfect for those who want the flexibility to change jobs, explore seasonal opportunities, or work while traveling.

Key Benefits:

• Open work permit.
• No pre-arranged job offer required.
• Freedom to work anywhere in Canada.

2. International Co-op (Internship)

Designed specifically for students, this category allows participants to gain professional experience in their field of study. Applicants must be enrolled in post-secondary education and must have a job offer related to their studies in Canada. Unlike the Working Holiday category, this option provides an employer-specific work permit.

Key Benefits:

• Requires enrollment in post-secondary education.
• Job must be related to the applicant’s field of study.
• Ideal for students seeking work placements or internships.

3. Young Professionals

This category is intended for young professionals looking to gain structured work experience in Canada. Applicants must have a valid job offer before applying, and the job must align with their education or career goals. The employer-specific work permit helps applicants build professional skills while experiencing Canadian culture.

Key Benefits:

• Requires a job offer before applying.
• Job must match the applicant’s education or career path.
• Structured work experience in Canada.

How the IEC Application Process Works

The IEC application process is designed to be simple and efficient. It does not operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but rather through a pool system and periodic invitation rounds. Here’s how it works:

1. Create Your Online Profile: Applicants must first create an online profile through the IEC portal and select their preferred category.
2. Enter the Pool: After submitting their profile, applicants are entered into a pool specific to their country.
3. Random Invitations: Canada issues random invitations during the IEC season. Not everyone in the pool will be invited to apply.
4. Submit Full Application: If invited, applicants can submit their full application along with required documents.
5. Receive Port of Entry Letter: If approved, applicants receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter, which they present when arriving in Canada.
6. Activate Work Permit: Upon arrival, applicants activate their work permit, allowing them to begin their job or internship in Canada.

List of All 36 IEC Eligible Countries

Young travelers from the following 36 countries are eligible to apply for the IEC program in 2026. The eligibility rules, age limits, and quotas may differ for each country, so applicants are encouraged to check specific details based on their nationality.

Eligible Countries for IEC 2026

Why IEC Matters for Travelers

The IEC program remains one of the most accessible and attractive options for young travelers who want to experience life in Canada. Here’s why the IEC program continues to matter for many:

1. Flexible Work Opportunities: Whether you’re looking for seasonal work or career-focused internships, the IEC offers the flexibility to choose your job and explore new opportunities in Canada.
2. Work and Travel Experience: The program allows participants to fund their travels by earning an income while experiencing the beauty and diversity of Canada.
3. Cultural Exchange: As part of the program, participants engage in cultural exchange, broadening their understanding of Canadian society and making connections with people from around the world.
4. Pathway to Longer-Term Residency: For many, the IEC program is a stepping stone to permanent residency in Canada. With work experience, the next step in their immigration journey may be even easier.

Why Canada Remains a Top Destination for Youth Mobility

Canada’s high quality of life, friendly immigration policies, diverse job market, and stunning landscapes have made it one of the world’s top destinations for youth mobility. In 2026, the IEC program will continue to offer an incredible opportunity to young adults who want to gain work experience, travel, and discover Canada.

The new season of the IEC program opens exciting doors for both Canadian employers and international participants, as it brings young, talented workers to Canadian businesses while helping global travelers experience the country like never before.

For young people eager to explore new horizons, the 2026 International Experience Canada program is a unique opportunity. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, professional experience, or an adventure, this program allows you to gain valuable work experience while discovering Canada. With over 60 eligible countries and a streamlined process, this is the perfect chance to turn your dreams of working and traveling abroad into reality.

Poland, along with Ireland, Mexico, Germany, South Korea, the UK, and over sixty other countries, is accelerating travel and visa opportunities as Canada launches the 2026 International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This initiative offers young travelers flexible work permits, making it easier for them to live, work, and explore Canada while gaining valuable experience.

If you meet the age and nationality requirements, don’t miss out on the chance to apply for the 2026 IEC season. Start preparing your application and join the thousands of young travelers who have made Canada their second home!