Canada working holiday (IEC) options for US citizens

This page is for United States citizens looking for information on Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) program. The United States is not on the list of official IEC partner countries. However, US citizens can participate through a specific recognized organization based in Canada.

The program provides an open work permit, usually for up to 12 months. To apply, you need to show at least CAN$2,500 in funds, plus a return ticket or money for one. The required fees include an IEC fee of CAN$184.75, an open work permit holder fee of CAN$100.00, and a biometrics fee of CAN$85.00 if required. You cannot bring dependants with you.

Passport

United States

Conditions for US citizens

• The United States is not on IRCC's list of IEC partner countries.
• IRCC's list of recognized organizations (Canada-based groups that support IEC participants, most of which charge a fee) includes one organization whose listed eligibility covers citizens of the United States.
• Using a recognized organization gives IEC participants up to 2 more lifetime participations, according to IRCC.

General rules of the program

• Usually up to 12 months; some agreements allow up to 23 or 24 months (see the table).
• Open work permit: temporary paid work for almost any employer to help pay for the trip.
• At least CAN$2,500 (or the equivalent) shown on a bank statement, plus a return ticket or money to buy one.
• Health insurance for the whole stay; you may have to show it at the border.
• IEC fee CAN$184.75 plus open work permit holder fee CAN$100.00; biometrics CAN$85.00 if you need to give them.
• You cannot be accompanied by dependants.
• IRCC's profile page said the pools for the 2026 season were closed when we checked on 21 October 2026.

What stands out

The most important detail for US citizens is that direct application to the government is not an option. You must use a recognized organization, which typically charges its own fee. A potential benefit mentioned by IRCC is that using a recognized organization can grant up to two additional lifetime participations in IEC. Also, be aware that the data check on October 21, 2026, found that the pools for the 2026 season were closed.

How to apply, step by step

1. Read IRCC's recognized organization page, including each organization's listed eligibility.
2. Contact the organization directly about its own requirements and fees.
3. If accepted, follow IRCC's IEC profile and invitation steps, and submit the organization's confirmation letter with your application.

Other programs open to US citizens

From the programs in this directory. Status is shown only where the official page stated it.

Full list: working holiday visas for US citizens.

All passports for this program: Canada working holiday visa (IEC) by country.