Search
Search
Home
Resources
Home
Resources

Resources

These resources should help answer any questions you have about your program. Send us an email for any more.

Frequently Asked Questions

This process involves a lot of steps! Consider this your handy map before embarking on your journey. We recommend to read this info to understand the program thoroughly! We’re here to help if you need additional support. 

General

What’s the difference between InterExchange, SWAP, and International Experience Canada (IEC)?

International Experience Canada (IEC)

Participating in this program means you will be a participant on the International Experience Canada (IEC) – Travel and Work program. IEC is the government body that oversees work exchange programs to and from Canada. Citizens from some countries are actually able to apply for this program through IEC directly. However, IEC requires that U.S. citizens work with a private organization they recognize, a “Recognized Organization” (R.O.).

SWAP Working Holidays

SWAP is an organization recognized by IEC (R.O.) making it possible for U.S. citizens to participate. SWAP is a cultural exchange organization based in Vancouver and Toronto offering programs for international participants in Canada, as well as for Canadians traveling abroad. Once you’re in Canada, they will be your main point of support. Please note, although we are partner in administration of our program, the information on SWAP’s website pertains to their international/non-U.S. audience. Any mention of program availability on SWAP’s website does not affect or apply to InterExchange’s program (we keep our own website updated with information about the program for U.S. citizens).

InterExchange

InterExchange is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) cultural exchange organization offering experiences in the U.S. for citizens of countries worldwide, and programs abroad for U.S. citizens. InterExchange collaborates with SWAP from the U.S. We partner with them to support you, a U.S. citizen, during the application process and provide pre-departure information. We are available to demystify the sometimes confusing IEC application. 

For travelers: You are not required to work with an immigration specialist. As this is a cultural exchange program, it is not required that you are represented by an attorney or immigration specialist. Our intention is for applicants to be able to apply on their own in a straightforward manner. We strongly encourage that the traveler completes the application process themselves. 

For attorney / immigration specialists: Individuals are meant to be able to complete the process on their own, as this is a cultural exchange program with a fairly straightforward (mostly online) application process. It is our strong preference that the applicant completes the process themselves.

Travel process

I want to travel to Canada ASAP. How should I proceed?

When the program is open, the first step is applying with InterExchange, and then we will contact you within a few business days with guidelines for completing the government (IEC) application. After applying to IEC, decision by a Government evaluator can take up to 6-8 weeks (but sometimes it’s faster!). You must have travel medical insurance and support funds before traveling.

Please note that we cannot guarantee work permit application timelines. 

As long as you’re a U.S. citizen 18-35 you are most likely eligible. U.S. citizens are allowed to participate in up to two IEC programs (two of the same, or one of each). These include the Working Holiday and Young Professional (YP) programs, both of which we offer at InterExchange. However, if you’ve already participated in your first IEC program, keep in mind that we have very limited spots for second-year participants on the Working Holiday and these sell out early, so if you are returning for a second year please consdier the Young Professional program.

U.S. citizens who meet the basic eligibility requirements are routinely approved. Rejections are extremely rare for those who meet these requirements and apply through the proper channels. You will have to complete the government application yourself but again, we will provide informational guidelines and are happy to go through questions and check your application before you submit, to support your process.

Most applicants do not need to prepare anything in advance. Those who have lived abroad for 6+ months since the age of 18 may be asked for a background check from that country. Those who have indicated they would like to work in childcare, education, or healthcare may be asked to undergo a medical exam with a panel physician. It’s possible that you will be requested to provide these documents for other reasons, but those are the most common situations that result in these requests. In general, U.S. citizens are not required to provide biometrics.

If you meet the basic eligibility requirements you can use the “Sign Up” buttons on our website to sign up. It’s a quick process and we usually approve applicants within a business day or two. Then we’ll send you guidelines to complete the government application, which is a bit more involved. In short, you’ll create a profile on the government website, they will extend an “Invitation to Apply,” and then you can proceed with their application forms online. The whole process usually takes under two months but this can vary depending on the applicant.

Yes, both of these are okay but once you’re approved, in order to activate your work permit you will have to leave Canada and re-enter at a Canada border port-of-entry (a border checkpoint). 

Yes. You can leave the country and come back during the 12 months your visa is valid.

No. You can stay as long as 12 months, but there’s no minimum stay.

You may only participate for a maximum of 12 months. However, as of March 2019 U.S. citizens may apply to participate on the program a second time. This is not an extension. If you apply a second time, you must leave Canada and return in order to obtain your second work permit. We have limited space available for second-year participants.

Each year, the RO receives an allotment of visa spots in the IEC visa pool. The number of visa spots issued is up to the government. Allotment and rules are subject to change from year to year. You can see more on the IEC website. 
Each year the IEC may implement a cap on the number of second year participants. You must disclose to InterExchange if you are on a second year of participation. There is no major difference in the application process or applicable fees.
Going to another country is analogous to getting on a flight. Even though you’ve bought the ticket, you ultimately still need to make it through airport security. As with airport security, with border security some guards and some days are more strict, busy, etc. Going to a border with your work permit pre-approval (aka LOI) is similar, in that the vast majority of people make it through if you have your documents ready and in order. You should be prepared to answer all of the border agent questions truthfully and to the best of your ability. Most travelers will have no problem getting in.

Jobs

What types of jobs are available?
Most jobs on a working holiday tend to be short-term and seasonal. These jobs are typically in the fields of travel and tourism, hospitality and resorts, food and beverage, retail, manual labor, event set up, etc. Jobs can range from one day to a few months. That being said, it is possible to find more professional work. Just speak with our partner SWAP about your work goals and they can point you in the right direction and provide resources for your search.
If you’re interested in our job placement service you will complete an additional form with your InterExchange application and pay an extra fee of $295. After we approve your application, SWAP’s team will reach out with a resume guide so that you can tailor your resume to Canadian expectations (when you’re ready SWAP will review it for you). Then they’ll set up a virtual interview and pass your resume on to your preferred employer(s). If you’re suitable for the job the employer will reach out directly to set up an interview. SWAP will prepare you with an interview guide. After successfully completing the interview the employer will send a formal job offer. InterExchange will continue to advise you on pre-departure processes including the work permit application.

International Experience Canada (IEC)
For official purposes you will be a participant on the International Experience Canada (IEC) – Travel and Work program. IEC is the government body that oversees work exchange programs to and from Canada. Citizens from some countries are actually able to apply for this program through IEC directly. However, IEC requires that U.S. citizens work with a private organization they recognize, a “Recognized Organization” (R.O.).

SWAP Working Holidays
SWAP is an organization recognized by IEC (R.O.) making it possible for U.S. citizens to participate. SWAP is a cultural exchange organization based in Vancouver and Toronto offering programs in Canada, as well as for Canadians traveling abroad. Once you’re in Canada, they will be your main point of support.

InterExchange
InterExchange is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) cultural exchange organization offering experiences in the U.S. for citizens of countries worldwide, and programs abroad for U.S. citizens. InterExchange collaborates with SWAP from the U.S. We support you, a U.S. citizen, during the application process and provide pre-departure information. We are available to demystify the sometimes confusing IEC application.

No. For the Working Holiday program you can have a job in advance or if not, you’re welcome to look for work while you’re in Canada. SWAP can help in your job search. Many employers will only be willing to hire you once you’ve been approved for the program and you are eligible to work. Also, it isn’t required that you work throughout your whole program. This program is intended as a way to experience Canada with the additional benefit of having a work permit.
There are very few restrictions. Your permit will not initially allow you to work in education, childcare, or healthcare, but this restriction can be removed if you undergo a medical exam with a panel physician chosen by the government of Canada. Here’s a list of panel physicians.
If you are proactive, professional, and open to various types of jobs (rather than aiming for one specific position), you can find a job quickly. There are many jobs available and most of our participants land a position within their first or second week in Canada.
It’s possible to secure work independently prior to arriving in Canada, but many employers prefer a face-to-face interview. You’ll have access to a jobs database and it never hurts to do some initial searching and outreach before you get to Canada.
The minimum wage in Canada depends on the province and generally ranges from $10.20 to $12.50 CAD per hour, with higher pay more often in northern Canada. Service employees – those working in restaurants and bars, for instance – are usually paid lower than minimum wage as tips complete their wages. Generally, Canadians tip 15% or more. Most ski resorts pay close to the minimum wage unless participants are hired for supervising roles. Office wages may be higher than minimum wage. The highest wages tend to be in construction and labor – particularly in Alberta where workers are needed year-round.
Yes, you may work for the same employer for the duration of your Working Holiday Visa. However, you are able to work for multiple employers with this visa.

Fees

What does the program fee cover?

Your program fee covers the services provided by both InterExchange and SWAP Working Holidays.

While in Canada, SWAP is available to provide guidance with finding jobs, housing, and logistics including obtaining your Social Insurance Number (SIN), getting around, and finding activities in your area. They have a jobs database for members, friendly staff available to speak with you about your work and travel goals, and support centers with orientation sessions every week in Toronto and Vancouver.

InterExchange provides information with respect to the work permit application process and your preparations for traveling.

International Experience Canada (IEC)

For official purposes you will be a participant on the International Experience Canada (IEC) – Travel and Work
program. IEC is the government body that oversees work exchange programs to and from Canada. Citizens from some
countries are actually able to apply for this program through IEC directly. However, IEC requires that U.S. citizens
work with a private organization they recognize, a “Recognized Organization” (R.O.).

 

SWAP Working Holidays

SWAP is an organization recognized by IEC (R.O.) making it possible for U.S. citizens to participate. SWAP is a
cultural exchange organization based in Vancouver and Toronto offering programs in Canada, as well as for Canadians
traveling abroad. Once you’re in Canada, they will be your main point of support.

 

InterExchange

InterExchange is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) cultural exchange organization offering experiences in the U.S. for citizens
of countries worldwide, and programs abroad for U.S. citizens. InterExchange collaborates with SWAP from the U.S. We
support you, a U.S. citizen, during the application process and provide pre-departure information. We are available
to demystify the sometimes confusing IEC application.

In general, we strongly prefer one-time full payment. Ask your InterExchange contact once you are accepted to the program about more details if you need to pay in limited installments.  InterExchange cannot process your application or proceed with your nomination until we receive your full program fee balance payment. 

The following costs are separate:
  • Canada visa fees paid directly on the government website (2026 price is C$285)
  • Medical insurance
  • Travel costs
Additionally, the Canadian government requires new visa holders to show proof of C$2500 in personal funds and/or a return ticket out of Canada, upon initial entry into Canada. See the IEC entry requirements.

Crossing the Canadian Border for U.S. Citizens

So you need to cross the Canadian border and don’t know what to expect, eh? No stress.

Crossing the border to activate your work permit is straightforward when you know what to bring and the correct terminology. You’re participating in an official, government-recognized cultural exchange program with proper documentation and legal authorization to work in Canada. Hundreds of people each day cross with no issues and in just a few minutes.

Keep in mind that entry is never guaranteed at any border. Ultimately, every person, vehicle, and pet entering a country is up to the border officer’s discretion. Showing up prepared and complying with regulations gives you the best chance of getting through without any hiccups.

This guide covers the essentials—activating your permit, choosing your crossing, required documents, flagpoling, reactivating your SIN, and more—so you can focus on your cultural exchange experience.

Legal Disclaimer: The following is informational and does not constitute legal advice, and is not meant to guarantee an exact experience at the border.

 
How do I activate my permit?

Here’s how it works: To activate your work permit, you’ll need to enter Canada at a border Port of Entry (land or airport). If you’re already in Canada, you’ll need to leave and re-enter (note that you can spend time in Canada as a visitor before activating your work permit). When you approach the Canada Border Services Agency officer, all you need to say is: “I want to activate a work permit for the International Experience Canada program.” That’s it! Simple and straightforward. For those activating a second permit, avoid saying “renew” or “extend” since these are one-time permits with a time restriction. Border processing typically takes 5-15 minutes. 

Alternative option: If you’re already in Canada and want to maintain legal status between permits without leaving the country, you can apply for a visitor record through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This costs $100, provides implied visitor status while you wait for a decision, and processing times vary. Not sure which route is best? Your InterExchange coordinator can help you decide.

 

All border points operate 24/7, so you have flexibility in timing your crossing. Check current wait times at cbsa-asfc.gc.ca before you go.

Avoid the crowds: The three Niagara area crossings (Peace Bridge/Buffalo-Fort Erie, Lewiston-Queenston, and Rainbow Bridge/Niagara Falls) are extremely busy especially during peak times due to high traffic volume and tourist congestion. We recommend avoiding these points altogether! Consider less busy crossing points if you have options. Smaller border crossings often mean shorter waits and more time for officers to process your permit without feeling rushed.

Below is the required list of documents you must bring in order to activate the IEC work permit. In addition to printed documents, keep backup copies of your documents on your phone. You’ll also need your phone for banking app access, so make sure it’s charged. Bring a portable charger—you’ll be glad you did!

  • Your passport (Make sure it’s valid for at least a year.) 
  • Letter of Introduction (LOI) *Sometimes called a Port of Entry letter, but LOI is the official term
  • Proof of travel medical insurance (print your declaration of insurance or policy coverage details)
  • Proof of personal support funds ($2,500 CAD equivalent—a banking app screenshot or recent bank statement works)
  • Any supporting documents from your application may also be handy to have – just in case!

It’s also important to know your Canadian employer’s contact information if you have a job lined up already, or accommodation address—officers may ask routine questions about your plans.

Your timeline depends on your permits, job requirements, and personal circumstances. Contact your InterExchange coordinator to discuss timing strategies that make sense for your situation.

Some second-year participants time their permit activation with an extended visit home to the U.S. Others make a quick border trip with a brief exit and immediate re-entry. We recommend considering a 24-hour stay in the U.S. to avoid any potential flagpoling complications.

Flagpoling means leaving Canada briefly to re-enter and activate your work permit—essentially a “u-turn” at the border. As of December 23, 2024, Canada stopped allowing flagpoling for most work and study permits to reduce border congestion.

Good news for U.S. citizens: You can still activate your work permit at the border through flagpoling. The Government of Canada specifically exempts U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents from the flagpoling restrictions for work and study permits. Print or save this official announcement to show at the border if needed.

Our recommendation: Again, the best practice is to stay in the U.S. for 24 hours or longer to clearly demonstrate you’re returning to Canada, not just flagpoling. This helps avoid any confusion at the border. It’s important to keep in mind that if you’re traveling with non-U.S. citizen friends or partners, they are subject to the flagpoling restrictions and will need to apply through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada instead.

IMPORTANT: A critical step is checking your permit immediately before leaving the border crossing checkpoint. Verify the expiry date is one year from your entry date — not your Letter of Introduction approval date. That’s a common mistake we see! Address any errors on the spot before leaving the border area. Fixing it there is easy, while trying to make a change later can be a long, complicated process and affect your ability to work for a full year. 

If you do notice errors afterwards, contact SWAP immediately. Corrections processes to a work permit may take several weeks, and it’s best to do this as soon as possible.

When you are crossing to activate your permit, you might have a lot of belongings – you can save time by documenting what you’re bringing (see information here!). Pets are generally welcome too with a rabies vaccine and if they meet humane transport standards. When entering as a visitor, you’ll want to limit how much you bring as that may be construed by Border Services as attempting to move to Canada permanently or stay beyond the allowed visitor period. You may want to be aware of limits on other goods, such as on tobacco and vape products.

Upon initial entry into Canada, you’ll want to visit a Service Canada office to get a Social Insurance Number (SIN). If you activate a second permit, you’ll want to update your SIN with your new permit expiration date. Your SIN number stays the same. Find your nearest Service Canada office.

Even though you cross the border on your own, you’re backed by a broad network of resources and connections. Here are your three key sources of support:

  • During application and border entry process: Your InterExchange coordinator.
  • During time in Canada after entering: SWAP (Student Work Abroad Programme)—your Recognized Organization (RO) who provides support in their offices, virtually, and 24/7 for emergencies. 
    • Attend their orientation even as a returning participant. Their services benefit everyone. 
    • Once you are signed up for our program and attain your Work Permit, your InterExchange coordinator will provide SWAP’s contact information and a handbook. 
  • Throughout the process: CBSA website for current border information

Use the printable checklist to below stay organized, and contact your InterExchange coordinator or SWAP with any questions. Let’s get you across that border and into the Great White North! 

 

Quick Reference Checklist [Print PDF]

At the Border:

  • Tell the officer you want to “activate a work permit.”
  • Present required documents.
    • Passport (Valid for at least a year)
    • Letter of Introduction (LOI)
    • Travel medical insurance proof (printed “Declaration of Insurance” or policy summary)
    • Bank statement or banking app showing $2,500 CAD equivalent
    • Any supporting documents (RO Letter, police certificate copies or medical exam copies, if applicable to your application)
    • Flagpoling exemption information (printed/saved) *only for those reentering Canada
  • CHECK PERMIT ACCURACY BEFORE LEAVING (ESPECIALLY EXPIRATION DATE)

After Border Crossing:

Contact Information for Real-Time Support:

  • CBSA Border Information Service: 1-800-461-9999 for general border questions
  • After-Hours Support: Your InterExchange Contact will provide this to individual program participants upon successful completion of your IEC application. 
  • U.S. Consulate in Canada: Keep contact information handy for any consular services if needed

Important Contact Information:  

  • Canadian employer’s contact information ______________________________
  • Accommodation address__________________________________________
  • Service Canada office location______________________________________
  • Nearest Embassy/Consulate contact info_______________________________