How Our Working Holiday Programs Work

Welcome to our Outbound Programs!

We help young Canadians (18-35) make their working holiday abroad dream a reality. Through our A-Way to Work program, we guide you every step of the way from choosing your working holiday destination, helping you apply for your work permit, assisting with accommodations in your work-travel countries and getting you fully prepared for departure.

Our new GoSolo program is for independent travellers who want freedom, flexibility, and a little backup from us.

International Rural Exchange Canada (IREC) empowers you to build skills, make memories, and see the world, all in one unforgettable journey.

A-Way To Work Program

When you travel with us, you are not alone. We work with a group of trusted international partners and hosts in countries around the world.

These partners & hosts help us by vetting placements to make sure they’re safe, reliable and a good fit for participants. Once you qualify, our A-Way to Work team will guide you before departure, checking in while you’re abroad, and being there if anything unexpected comes up.

Includes:

  • Pre-Departure Guidance – Work permit application support, packing lists, travel insurance guidance, and everything you need before your flight.
  • Placements secured pre-departure.*
  • Accommodation* – Accommodations provided by host family.
  • Community Connection – Meet fellow travelers through our Circle Travel App, group meetups, and local events.
  • 24/7 Emergency Support Line – Because adventures come with surprises, and we’ve got your back when you need it most.
  • Full ongoing support and assistance.

*Unless otherwise specified in program details.

Check out our Programs

Want more details? Join our FREE Information Sessions.

Info Sessions

Register for our
FREE Information Sessions

Select the date that works best for you:

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 ~ 6:00 PM CST

Monday, November 30, 2026 ~ 6:00 PM CST

*If you do not receive a registration link please Contact Us

New! Support Program

Are you a more independent traveler who is ready to explore the world, work abroad, and make lifelong memories? Our Work & Travel Support Program is here to guide you every step of the way.

Includes:

  • Pre-Departure Guidance – Work permit application support, packing lists, travel insurance guidance, and all you need before your flight.
  • Optional Visa Guidance Meeting – If you need a little more help.
  • Job Assistance – Job board guidance and advice on finding safe and reliable employment.
  • Accommodation Help – Resources on short-term stays when you land, plus finding longer-term housing.
  • Community Connection – Meet fellow travelers through our Circle Travel App, group meetups, and local events.
  • 24/7 Emergency Support Line – Because adventures come with surprises, and we’ve got your back when you need it most.
GoSolo Programs

About International Rural Exchange Canada

We have enabled thousands of life-changing work and travel experiences since 1985. We are a recognized organization of the Government of Canada and can help young people access work permits through the International Experience Canada program (IEC).

We acknowledge with respect that our office is on Treaty 2 territory, the traditional land of the Dakota, Anishanabek, Oji-Cree, Cree, Dene and Metis people.

We are a treaty people.