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After graduating from a Canadian college or university, many international students transition smoothly into a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)to gain valuable Canadian work experience. But what happens when that permit is about to expire? Let’s say you’ve just finished your PGWP and are loving your job and life in Canada. You’ve heard about the International Experience Canada (IEC)program and wonder, "Can I just switch to IEC and keep working?” It’s a common assumption—but a risky one.
2025/05/06
IEC is not an extension of your PGWP! It’s a separate program with its own eligibility rules, application process, and timelines.
That said, IEC can still be a smart and strategic option for former PGWP holders—if you understand how to apply correctly and avoid the pitfalls. This guide breaks it down step by step so you can stay in Canada
and protect your future immigration opportunities.
PGWP is intended to help international graduates gain Canadian work experience after completing their studies.
IEC, on the other hand, is part of a Youth Mobility Program designed for cultural exchange and short-term work opportunities through bilateral agreements with specific countries.
PGWP eligibility depends on graduating from an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution.
IEC eligibility depends on:
Your citizenship
Your age (usually 18–30 or 18–35)
Whether your country has a Youth Mobility Agreement with Canada
Financial and insurance requirements
PGWP applications are submitted from within Canada and linked to your study permit.
IEC applications:
Must be submitted through a separate online portal
Enter a pool-based draw system
Require an Invitation to Apply (ITA) before you can apply for a work permit
Make sure:
Your country is part of the IEC partner list
You’re within the age limit
You haven’t reached your IEC participation cap
You’ll need:
Proof of at least $2,500 CAD
Proof of a return ticket, or funds to purchase one
Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of your stay
Working Holiday (WHV) – Open work permit
Young Professionals (YP) – Employer-specific permit
International Co-op – For students doing internships
🧠 Tip: If you have a skilled job lined up, the YP category could help you build PR-eligible experience.
Valid passport
Proof of funds
Medical exam (if applicable)
Police certificate
Health insurance
Biometrics
Register on the IRCC portal and select the appropriate category and country.
If selected, you’ll have a limited time window to submit your full work permit application.
Upload your documents, pay the fees, and submit everything through your IRCC account.
This is not your work permit—it's your authorization to receive one at the Canadian border.
You must leave and re-enter Canada with your POE letter.
🚫 Flagpoling is no longer a guaranteed option and may be refused. Plan to exit and return properly.
If you’re already in Canada (on a visitor record or eTA) while waiting for IEC approval, remember:
You must leave and re-enter Canada to activate your IEC work permit
Receiving the POE letter does not change your legal status
Working in Canada without valid authorization is a violation—even if you’re waiting on IEC
The IEC program can be an excellent way to extend your Canadian journey after PGWP, but don’t treat it like an extension—because it’s not. It's a separate program with unique rules and risks if misunderstood.
Misunderstanding this—especially continuing to work after your PGWP expires while waiting for IEC approval—can lead to serious consequences at the Port of Entry (POE), including:
So before you base your decision on Reddit threads, TikTok videos, or your roommate’s advice, talk to someone who actually reads them for a living.
🎯Bottom line: Don't assume IEC is a simple backup. Failing to follow the rules could damage your immigration record.
