work and travel abroad with international experience canada

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Work and travel in Canada with  International Experience Canada

If you're 18 to 35 (18 to 30 in some countries), come work and travel in Canada through International Experience Canada (IEC)! It's a government program designed to help you

• gain valuable international work experience
• improve your language skills in English and French
• work in Canada and fund the trip of a lifetime

More about IEC

Are you Canadian? Learn how you can work and travel abroad with IEC.

Are you Canadian? Learn how you can work and travel abroad with IEC .

Who can apply

Get started by checking to see if your country has an arrangement with Canada.

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Republic of Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• My country is not listed

See eligibility by country and category .

How IEC works

Step 1 : Create a profile

Step 2 : Get invited to apply

Step 3 : Apply for a work permit

Application guide at a glance

2023 season now open

The pools for the 2023 season are open. If you’re eligible , you can create a profile.

Check the rounds of invitations page to find out how likely you are to receive an invitation in the next round.

Processing fees

Additional fees may apply

Current processing time

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after you submit all documents and give biometrics

Recognized organizations (ROs)

ROs may be able to help plan your experience

Watch IEC videos

IEC is a rewarding experience that can launch a life full of international adventure.

Hear from real participants who had unforgettable trips and watch the application walk-through guide.

Working holiday = Yum: How 2 New Zealanders built a business on their IEC experience [ Transcript ]

International Experience Canada – Application Walkthrough Guide [ Transcript ]

Services and information

How the pools work.

Learn what happens after you submit your profile and how likely you are to get an invitation to apply.

Rounds of invitations

Find out key dates, number of invitations sent and spots available

Get answers to your questions

Check the Help Centre for answers to common questions about IEC.

Check your application status

Get online updates for your application.

Find a job in Canada

Search the government job bank to see what jobs are available around the country.

Extend your IEC participation

Find out how to extend your participation or make changes to your work permit in exceptional circumstances.

IEC webform

Fill out the web form if you need to submit documents or if you need to ask for an extension to submit your documents.

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International Experience Canada program is now open to welcome international youth to Canada

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News release

International youth contribute valuable and diverse skills to Canada's economy when they come from abroad to gain meaningful work and life experiences here. Similarly, Canadian youth benefit from working and travelling abroad and coming home with an international perspective.

January 9, 2023 — Ottawa —International youth contribute valuable and diverse skills to Canada's economy when they come from abroad to gain meaningful work and life experiences here. Similarly, Canadian youth benefit from working and travelling abroad and coming home with an international perspective.

Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the International Experience Canada (IEC) season is now open to international youth who have expressed interest in gaining work and travel experience in Canada. Those who are already in the IEC pool will begin receiving invitations to apply for their work permit.

This year, Canada will be extending this opportunity to nearly 90,000 international youth, as announced on December 1, 2022 . This expansion will help Canadian employers find the workers they need to fill labour shortages across the country.

Canada has a long-standing history of supporting Canadian and international youth to travel and work abroad. IEC helps youth explore new cultures, languages and societies, all while developing life skills and improving their job prospects for the future.

“Our government supports international youth to work and travel in Canada, effectively helping employers find the workers they need. By giving youth the opportunity to gain international travel and work experience, we are strengthening our economy and creating a win-win solution for everyone involved.” – The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“IEC is now open for nearly 90,000 international youth looking to gain valuable work and life experiences in Canada. This program brings a diverse range of skills and perspectives to our workforce, while also helping to address labour shortages in Canada's tourism industry. At the same time, it provides Canadian youth with the opportunity to gain valuable work and life experiences abroad and to return home with an international perspective. IEC is a fantastic opportunity for both Canada's tourism industry and the personal and professional development of young leaders at home and abroad.” – The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism of Canada

“IEC is an excellent resource for youth from Canada and 36 countries around the world to gain unforgettable work and life experiences. IEC helps young people not only develop new skills and explore different cultures, but also return home with an international perspective. IEC is a unique and exciting program, and we encourage all eligible youth to take advantage of it.” – The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Youth of Canada

“Labour shortages are affecting many sectors in the Canadian workforce. Our Government is ensuring employers can address these gaps by drawing from a diverse pool of youth abroad, who are ready to contribute to our workforce. Through the International Experience Canada Program, we’re helping businesses across the country by allowing more international youth to gain meaningful employment while exploring.”  – The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion

Quick facts

IEC is a reciprocal program that allows Canadian and international youth to work and travel in each other’s countries.

On December 19, 2022, the IEC pools opened to allow international youth to create an online profile .

While Canadian youth can apply for the program year-round, international candidates can only apply at certain times of the year, typically December until fall. Canada has youth mobility arrangements with 36 countries and foreign territories through the IEC program that allow youth from Canada’s partner countries to work and travel in Canada for up to 2 years. The age of participants ranges from 18 to 35, depending on their country.

The program has 3 participation categories: 

• Working Holiday participants receive an open work permit that allows them to work anywhere in the host country to support their travels.
• International Co-op (Internship) participants receive an employer-specific work permit that allows students to gain targeted experience in their field of study.
• Young Professionals participants receive an employer-specific work permit to gain targeted, professional work experience that is within their field of study or career path.

Associated links

• International Experience Canada
• Government of Canada allowing more international youth to work and travel in Canada

Contacts for media only:

Bahoz Dara Aziz Press Secretary Minister’s Office Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [email protected]

Media Relations Communications Branch Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada 613-952-1650 [email protected]

Page details

International Experience Canada (IEC)

International Experience Canada (IEC) is a program that allows individuals with the opportunity to work and travel in Canada.

What you need to know about International Experience Canada (IEC)

Canada has international agreements in place which allow citizens of certain countries, and of a certain age, to apply for a Canadian work permit without the need for a job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). These programs fall under International Experience Canada (IEC).

International Experience Canada (IEC) is program that allows individuals with the opportunity to work and travel in Canada. International Experience Canada (IEC) is open to citizens from thirty-five different countries with three different types of categories available including the Working Holiday category, Young Professionals category and International Co-Op (Internship) category.

Work permits can be valid for up to 24 months, and in the case of the Working Holiday category, are valid anywhere in Canada.

About the three different categories

Working Holiday

Young Professionals

International Co-op

As part of the application process, applicants will be required to undergo a medical check (based on country of residence) and criminal background checks to ensure that they are not  inadmissible  to Canada for criminal or medical reasons. Applicants do not need to be residing in the country of their citizenship to apply, but they may be required to provide a permanent mailing address in that country as part of the application process. As part of the application, applicants will need to have $2,500 available to them, have  private health insurance to cover the duration of their stay in Canada , can afford a round trip ticket and have a valid passport issued by their country of citizenship (which is eligible for International Experience Canada).

Obtain a quote for private health insurance today!

How to apply, enter the iec pool.

The first step is to enter the IEC Pool through an  Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) secure account.  You will be required to pay a fee of $153.00 to enter the pool.

Invitation to apply

Once you are in the IEC Pool, you wait to be given an Invitation to Apply for a work permit.

Work permit application

Once you start your work permit application, you will have twenty days from that day to submit the full application for your work permit. You will need to pay a further $100.00 when submitting this application.

Application Approved

If your application is approved, you will be issued a Letter of Introduction which you will need to take with you to Canada.

Let our experts simplify the process for you

Required documents.

Once you receive your Invitation to Apply, you will require the following documents to submit your work permit application:

Eligible Countries

Citizens of the following countries are eligible under International Experience Canada (IEC) if they have a valid passport from that country.

• Eligible for Working Holidays, Young Professionals and International Co-Ops (Internship);
• Valid for up to 24 months
• Must be between 18 and 35 (inclusive)
• As an Australian citizen, you may participate in the Working Holiday category only once. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may participate in IEC one more time through the International Co-op (Internship) category.

• Valid for up to 12 months;
• Must be between 18 and 30 (inclusive)
• As an Austrian citizen, you may participate once per IEC category (Working Holiday, Young Professional and International Co-op).

• Eligible for Working Holidays;
• Must be between 18 and 30 (inclusive);
• Must prove you’re a resident of Belgium when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in Belgium
• As a Belgian citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

• Must be between 18 and 35 (inclusive);
• As a Chilean citizen, you may participate in IEC twice, under any category

• As a Costa Rican citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time

• As a Croatian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice, under any category. There must be a three-month break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application

Czech Republic

• prove you’re a resident of the Czech Republic when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in the Czech Republic)
• As a Czech citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands) when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands));
• As a Danish citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

• As an Estonian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

• Valid for up to 24 months;
• As a French citizen, you may participate in the Working Holiday only once. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may participate in IEC one more time through the International Co-op (Internship) category.

• As a German citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

• As a Greek citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

• Must prove you’re a resident of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR);
• As a resident of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), you may participate in IEC only once.

• As an Irish citizen, you may participate in the Working Holiday category only once. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may participate in IEC one more time through the International Co-op (Internship) category.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Italy when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in Italy;
• As an Italian citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Japan when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in Japan;
• As a Japanese citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

Republic of Korea

• Must prove you’re a resident of the Republic of Korea when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in the Republic of Korea;
• As a Korean citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Latvia when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in Latvia;
• As a Latvian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time. There must be a one year break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application.

• As a Lithuanian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time. There must be a three-month break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application.

• As a Luxembourgish citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

• Must be between 18 and 29 (inclusive);
• Must be registered as a student at a post-secondary institution in Mexico and travelling to Canada during academic holidays;
• As a Mexican citizen, you may participate in IEC twice, under any category. There must be a three-year break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application.

Netherlands

• Eligible for Working Holidays, Young Professionals;
• Nationals of all Dutch Caribbean islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten) are Dutch citizens and therefore eligible;
• As a Dutch citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

New Zealand

• Valid for up to 23 months;
• As a citizen of New Zealand, you may participate in IEC only once.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Norway when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in Norway);
• As a Norwegian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

• As a Polish citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time. There must be a six-month break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application.

• As a Portuguese citizen, you may participate in IEC once, under any category.

• As a citizen of San Marino, you may participate in IEC twice.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Slovakia when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in the Slovakia Republic);
• As a Slovak citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time. There must be a three-month break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application.

• As a Slovenian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Spain when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in the Spain);
• As a Spanish citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time. There must be a three-month break between the expiry date of your first Canadian work permit under IEC and the submission date of your second IEC work permit application.

• Must prove you’re a resident of Sweden when you apply (this means you must give either a residential or mailing address in the Sweden);
• As a Swedish citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. You must choose a different category each time.

Switzerland

• Eligible for Young Professionals and International Co-Ops (Internship);
• Valid for up to 18 months;
• Must have a signed letter of offer or contract of employment in Canada which must be in your field of expertise (through schooling or work experience) and contribute to your professional development;
• As a Swiss citizen, you may participate in IEC twice. The combined durations of your two IEC work permits to Canada must not exceed 18 months.

• As a Taiwanese citizen, you may participate in IEC only once.

• As a Ukrainian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice, under any category.

United Kingdom

• Must be a British citizen from the United Kingdom or the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey
• As a British citizen, you may participate in IEC once.

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How to Work and Travel Abroad for Canadians (30+ Countries!)

Posted on March 20, 2023

Categories Blog , Remote Work , Resources

Did you know that it’s easy to work and travel abroad for Canadians? International Experience Canada (IEC) provides young Canadians (ages 18-35) with life-changing opportunities to live, work and travel overseas. There are so many reasons why you need to see the world, and IEC helps Canadians achieve both their personal and professional goals.

As a full time travel blogger and content creator, travelling the world has completely changed my life. My only regret is not travelling sooner! I only wish that I had taken advantage of a program like IEC when I was younger. I’m going to share exactly what IEC is, as well as the advantages of a working holiday program. Then, I’ll show you some of the countries where you can travel, work and fully immerse yourself in the culture of an international destination.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Table of Contents

What is International Experience Canada (IEC)?

International Experience Canada, or IEC, is an initiative led by the Government of Canada’s Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Department. It encourages Canadian youth to travel and explore the world by providing a clear path to a work permit or visa to work in dozens of international destinations.

Through IEC, the Government of Canada has created agreements with 30+ countries and foreign territories so young Canadians can work and travel abroad. In return, the youth from these countries can travel and work in Canada. It’s a reciprocal agreement so youth from both countries can embark on working holidays and gain invaluable work and life experiences.

IEC makes it easier for Canadians aged 18-35 to apply for work permits in order to legally be employed abroad. There are advantages to applying for work permits through IEC, including the fact that they are easier to get, they’re less expensive, they offer more flexibility than a regular work permit, and it often takes less time to process this kind of work permit.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

If you are a Canadian citizen aged 18-35, you may be eligible to apply. Each country or territory has different requirements, some of which only extend the opportunity to Canadians aged 18-30. You’ll need to check each country’s requirements to find one that works for you.

There are a few situations where it makes a lot of sense to take a working holiday. You might decide to take a gap year before starting college or university to discover new interests and simply see the world before you begin to settle down.

You may be a working adult who doesn’t have as many responsibilities in life right now. This is a great time to wander the globe and explore new possibilities. You may have a free spirited or spontaneous personality. After reading this article, you might already begin looking into participating in the IEC program as soon as possible.

What about adults who already have an established career? You are not excluded from taking part in the IEC’s initiatives! It might be possible for you to take a sabbatical from work. Your employer may have international offices where you can arrange for a temporary transfer in order to take advantage of a working holiday experience. This may be beneficial to your employer as you’ll return with new ideas and perspectives.

Why Should I Work and Travel Abroad?

This work and travel abroad program for Canadians provides valuable career and life skills in each country for up to two years. There are so many benefits to travelling. It opens you up to new cultures and ways of life. You’ll learn new perspectives, engage with local communities, and increase your awareness and sensitivity to different traditions, values and lifestyles.

On a personal level, you may be able to learn or practice new languages abroad. You’ll become more confident and develop many new skills, both personally and for your CV. Of course, you’ll be able to make money along the way to fund your travels, too. Depending on where you choose to travel and work abroad, you may be able to use your weekends off to explore other nearby places and countries (where permitted).

Exploring the world can help you learn more about yourself. You’ll discover what inspires you, uncover your strengths, and improve upon your weaknesses. You will have the opportunity to meet new people and forge working relationships and friendships around the world.

Where Can Young Canadians Work and Travel Abroad?

After these past few years, it’s a fantastic time to finally travel again and safely see the world. There are currently 34 countries and territories where Canadians can work and travel abroad through IEC. Here is the complete listing of places:

• Czech Republic
• Korea, Rep.
• Netherlands

New Zealand

Switzerland, united kingdom.

Every country has different requirements for applying. Each place also has different rules for how long you can stay and participate in the working holiday program. The Government of Canada and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), through IEC, have made it easy to learn about these specific details through their official website .

I’m going to choose a few of my favourite countries that I’ve visited from the list of working holiday partner countries. I’ll outline some reasons why you may choose that place as your destination for this work and travel abroad program. Also, I’ll explain the requirements to apply for a work permit or visa under IEC for each country.

When I travelled to New Zealand a few years ago, I noticed that there were many similarities between New Zealand and Canada. The mountainous environment of Western Canada is similar to New Zealand, and the people are overwhelmingly welcoming and friendly, much like us polite Canadians!

New Zealand is breathtakingly beautiful, no matter if you’re visiting the North or South Island. Explore glowworm caves, make a trip to Hobbiton, scale the mighty glaciers, or simply marvel at the views on a day hike. New Zealand is a practical destination to visit because everyone speaks English, so it could be a good choice for your first time living away from Canada.

To work in New Zealand through the Canada Working Holiday Visa you must be a Canadian citizen, be 18-35 years old and have a valid Canadian passport. You can stay and work in New Zealand for up to 23 months. Here are more requirements to work and travel in New Zealand .

Justin and I have visited Germany on several occasions, and it’s one of those destinations that keeps calling us back. There’s so much to see and do in Germany beyond Oktoberfest and bratwurst! Germany has lively and artsy cities, adorable villages with rows of half-timbered houses, and brilliant nature to explore.

We’ve had several unique experiences in Germany, like visiting historic castles, taking a cable car to the highest mountain in the country, and taking a bike tour with an emphasis on street art and public art. You can brush up on your German language skills in Germany, though I’ve found that most people speak English quite well.

To work in Germany through the Youth Mobility Visa, you must be a Canadian citizen, be 18-35 years old and have a valid Canadian passport. You can stay and work in Germany for up to 12 months, though You can participate in Germany’s Youth Mobility Program two times. Here are more requirements to work and travel in Germany .

Travelling and working in the United Kingdom provides you with an opportunity to work in either England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. It might be hard to narrow it down because each destination has a unique culture with so much to offer.

From energetic cities to charming small towns, there’s always something happening in the UK, whether it’s a lively festival or an annual event. There are so many brilliant natural wonders to explore, as well as intriguing historic monuments and landmarks.

To work in the United Kingdom (UK) under the Youth Mobility Scheme, you must be a Canadian citizen, be 18-30 years old and have a valid Canadian passport. You can stay and work in the United Kingdom for up to 24 months. Here are more requirements to work and travel in the United Kingdom .

There’s a reason we keep returning to Italy! The food, the culture, the history…and did I mention the food? Pizza, pasta, gelato…those can be daily staples for your new life in Italy. Whether you’re uncovering the layers of history in Rome or drifting across the canals of Venice, a working holiday in Italy might be one of the best experiences of your life.

While many people speak English in the bigger cities of Italy (especially the younger population), you may run into some language barriers depending on your job choice, where you’ll be living, or who you’ll be interacting with. It might be a good idea to take some Italian language classes while you’re there.

To work in Italy through the Italy-Canada Youth Exchange Program, you must be a Canadian citizen, be 18-35 years old, and have a valid Canadian passport. You can stay in Italy for up to 12 months, and you can participate in Italy’s Youth Exchange Program twice. Other requirements may apply. Learn more about how you can to work and travel in Italy .

Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever seen in my life! Imposing mountains, cute villages, and magnificent nature are all commonplace in Switzerland. It’s home to the most epic train rides in the world, and it’s an amazing all-seasons destination for outdoor adventures. Hike the trails in the summer and ski from the mountaintops in the winter.

Though it’s incredibly stunning, one consideration to make if you’re choosing Switzerland for a working holiday is the costs of living there. Similar to the Scandinavian countries, it is one of the most expensive places to live in the world. You’ll need to work out your salary and budget in advance to consider whether or not living and working in Switzerland is a viable option.

To work in Switzerland through the Youth Mobility program, you must be a Canadian citizen, be 18-35 years old, have a permanent address in Canada when applying, and have a valid Canadian passport. You can stay and work in Switzerland for up to 12 months. You can participate in the Switzerland Youth Mobility Program twice. The maximum duration of both participations must be less than 18 months. Here are more requirements to work and travel in Switzerland .

How Can Canadians Work and Travel Abroad With IEC?

For Canadians looking to work and travel abroad, it’s easy to get started. First, you’ll need to choose a destination from the list above. Hopefully, I’ve given you some ideas with my top picks. However, you will need to consider a few details, like the cost of living of that destination and the availability of jobs.

You can choose a job where you already have some expertise or educational background. Perhaps you are working a similar career in Canada where you can transfer those skills to a similar organization overseas. Or perhaps your current employer has international offices where you can work. Some other ideas for employment can include teaching English overseas , both in classrooms and virtually, or you can even become a digital nomad or travel blogger while living internationally.

The next step is making sure that you are eligible to live and work within your chosen country or territory. Each destination has different rules and requirements, depending on your age, residency, financial requirements, work restrictions and how long you can stay in that country. Make sure you choose to work and travel abroad in a place that aligns with your goals. You’ll also need to be sure that you apply for the correct work permits.

Then, you’ll need to gather your documents (your passport, proof of funds, medical insurance, and your job offer or contract of employment. Complete your application and once approved, it’s time to start planning! Check out my handy guide with practical advice for planning an international trip , as well as step-by-step details for booking your journey. Enjoy this experience of a lifetime!

This article is brought to you by International Experience Canada (IEC) and the Government of Canada’s Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Department. You can find IEC on Instagram and Facebook .

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

• American Summers

Work in Canada

Work in canada offers you the opportunity to combine work and travel in a different north american setting..

Spend up to 12 months living, working and traveling in Canada. Gain the international experience of working abroad without actually having to go overseas!

Americans who want to work or undertake an internship in Canada must apply for a work permit through a Recognized Organization in Canada. This is because there is no formal agreement between the USA and Canada. Our partner, SWAP Working Holidays, is the Canadian government Recognized Organization. The program is administered in America by IENA.

There are two work permit options, the Working Holiday Permit and the Young Professionals Permit. The Working Holiday permit is an Open Work permit allowing you to take any job in any Province. The Young Professionals permit is a suitable option for applicants with pre-arranged jobs or internships related to their professional development and is an employer-specific work permit (you can only work for one employer).

You choose the date you wish to enter Canada within your eligibility period and book your own travel accordingly. If you wish to take advantage of the free arrival orientation, you should make your way to the SWAP offices in either Toronto or Vancouver. However, you can be as independent as you choose and still have the knowledge that SWAP will be there throughout your stay to help you if needed.

Work in Canada Program Offers

• Free choice of arrival date into Canada.
• Pre-departure support from IENA, with many years of experience in administering international student exchanges at your disposal.
• Step by step instructions on how to apply for work permit approval as part of the International Experience Canada (IEC) initiative.
• Discounted, comprehensive worldwide travel insurance with $500,000 in medical coverage and $50 deductible per injury and insurance.
• After Hours Emergency Assistance: SWAP is there to help even after the office has closed.
• Social activities including sports events, pub nights and excursions.
• SWAP Hosting Centers in Toronto and Vancouver, job and accommodation listings, plus general advice from friendly, knowledgeable staff.
• Arrival Orientation packed with important information to prepare you for your stay. Advice on bank accounts, tax, applying for a SIN (Social Insurance Number) as well as practical information on job and accommodation hunting!
• Access to SWAP’s online job database that has listings of jobs available in British Columbia and Ontario.
• Free internet, Wi-Fi, and computer facilities, plus use of telephones and mail service.

Work in Canada Eligibility

Working holiday.

• Be aged 18 – 35 (inclusive).
• Be a US citizen (with a valid US passport).
• Have a clear criminal record.
• Have proof of support funds equal to at least CA$2,500 on entry to Canada.
• Have proof of adequate medical insurance (including personal accident and repatriation of remains) on entry to Canada in excess of CA$25,000 as you will not be covered by the Canadian socialized medical system while working in Canada. You can provide your own coverage or you can purchase insurance through IENA (View policy details )
• Have proof of Covid 19 Vaccination
• Not bring dependents with you to Canada on this program.

Young Professionals

• Have a pre-arranged job or internship related to your studies or professional development.
• Have a job/internship that meets National Occupational Classification (NOC) Code Skill Type Level 0, A or B
• Be paid (you cannot be self-employed).
• Work full-time (at least 35 hours per week).

You can participate in the program twice if you meet eligibility requirements (limited number of work permits available for second-time applicants)

Job Opportunities

Working holidays.

The Open Work Permit allows you to be legally employed in Canada for up to 12 months, anywhere, for any employer. However, to work in agriculture, childcare, health services or teaching, you are required to undergo medical clearance BEFORE entering Canada (this can be an expensive and lengthy process).

The type of job you can secure will depend on your qualifications and previous work experience. Most participants find casual employment in shops, bars, restaurants, ski resorts and hotels, but it is possible to find career related or professional work. The majority of participants seek employment once they have arrived in Canada and it takes on average 7 days to secure a job. If you intend to find a career-type position, you should start your job hunt before you go and be prepared to spend more time researching possible vacancies.

Traditionally there are 3 main areas which provide work opportunities: Ontario (Toronto), Alberta (Canadian Rockies for resort work) and British Columbia (Vancouver). If you are unsure about which area will suit you best, you should do as much research as you can. Have a look at a map and get an idea of distances and check out guide books such as Lonely Planet.

Your job or internship must meet National Occupational Classification (NOC) Code Skill Type Level 0, A or B. You should discuss your job title and NOC job code with your employer.   Search for your job title and appropriate job code .

Accommodations

Hostels, dorms, and homes.

Some jobs provide accommodation, but if yours doesn’t you’ll need somewhere temporary to stay until you sort out something more permanent. Youth Hostels, student dorms or tourist homes are your best bet when you first arrive in a town to start your job or look for work. During the summer vacation, halls of residence are often available to rent on an individual basis and normally provide a good standard of budget accommodation. Many Canadian students also go away for the summer months and are looking to sublet their apartments. Alternatively, look in the classified section of the local newspaper for apartments to rent or share. Accommodation agencies can be useful, but some charge a fee for their services.

Travel Information

What to see in canada.

Whether you work as you travel or work and then travel, you will probably want to see as much of Canada as possible. The wide-ranging diversity in culture and geography makes it a great destination for doing just about anything.

Why not explore one of Canada’s nine mountain ranges? The Canadian Rockies in Banff or Pigeon Spire located in Bugaboo Provincial Park in the Columbia Mountains or check out the Appalachian Mountains which were formed roughly 480 million years ago.

Lakes & Parks

Canada has over two million lakes – more than a thousand miles of white-sand beaches beckon visitors to Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba, the 10th largest lake in the world. For boating and fishing visit the Lake Champlain region of the Adirondack Coast.

For an outdoor adventure, check out one of Canada’s many national parks.

Cosmopolitan cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal boast excellent galleries, museums, theaters, and vibrant nightlife!

Interesting Facts

Interesting facts about canada.

• Canada has 6 time zones.
• Canada is home to the longest street in the world. Yonge Street in Ontario starts at Lake Ontario and runs north through Ontario to the Minnesota border, almost 2,000 km.
• Canada has the world’s longest coastline at 202,080 km.
• A bear cub named Winnipeg was exported from Canada to the London Zoo in 1915. A little boy named Christopher Robin Milne loved to visit Winnipeg (Winnie for short). His love for the bear cub inspired the stories written by his father, A.A. Milne, about Winnie-the-Pooh.
• Canada has twice been invaded by the USA, first in 1775 and again in 1812.
• Canada holds the record for the most gold medals ever won at the Winter Olympics, taking 14 Golds at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.
• Sandy Gardiner, a journalist with the Ottawa Journal in the 60s, coined the term ‘Beatlemania’ while he was writing a story about the Beatles.
• Canada was named through a misunderstanding. When Jacques Cartier, a French explorer came to the new world he met with local natives who invited him to their ‘Kanata’ (the word for ‘village’). The party mistakenly thought the name of the country was “Kanata” or Canada.
• Canada is home to approximately 55,000 different species of insects.
• Montreal is home to many beautiful churches and is often called The City of Saints or City of a Hundred Bell Towers.
• Ontario is believed to be home to the world’s smallest jail, which measures only 24.3 sq. meters.
• Canada’s only desert in British Columbia is only 15 miles long and is the only desert in the world with a long boardwalk for visitors to walk on.
• Canada is the second largest country in the world right after Russia.
• Canada’s lowest recorded temperature was -81.4 degrees Fahrenheit (-63C) in 1947.
• Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world’s lakes combined.

Application and Fees

Stage 1 of the application.

Please set up an IENA account and complete the online IENA Outbound Program application being sure to also upload supporting documents to your IENA account.

Supporting Documents Checklist

• Program reference or job offer (download reference form via your IENA account)
• Copy of passport bio page (the page with your photo and passport number)
• Insurance Declaration (download the declaration form via your IENA account)
• Young Professionals applicants – SWAP Young Professionals application (download via your IENA account)

When all documents have been uploaded to your account and your application is complete we will assess your application and then invoice you for payment of our program fee. After payment is processed you will be instructed to move to stage two of the application process.

Stage 2 of the Application

Apply for a Canadian Work permit via Citizenship & Immigration Canada (CIC).

IENA will provide complete step-by-step instructions and guidance for all stages of the application process.

Please apply at least 8-10 weeks prior to your intended date of travel to Canada. You are strongly advised not to book flights or make any travel plans before your work permit application is approved by the Canadian government.

Places on the 2023 program will be allocated on a first come first served basis to applicants with completed IENA applications.

Program Fees

The Working Holiday program fee is $1,375 and covers administration in America and Canada, use of hosting centers in Toronto and Vancouver for job and accommodation listings and program support.

The Young Professionals program fee is $1,375 and covers administration in America and Canada, use of hosting centers in Toronto and Vancouver and program support.

Other Costs to Consider

• Travel Insurance – You must show proof of adequate medical and accident insurance on entry to Canada. IENA can provide a policy with $500,000 in medical coverage and $50 deductible. Premiums start at $225.
• Support Funds in the amount of CA$2,500.
• Canadian Government fees Working Holiday permit CA$253/Young Professionals permit CA$153 (Both are subject to change by the Canadian government).
• Young Professionals Employer Compliance fee CA$230 (paid by employer)

Application Deadline: Please apply at least 8-10 weeks prior to your planned date of travel to Canada. It is strongly advised not to purchase flights or make travel arrangements before receiving your entry document to Canada.

Cancellation Conditions

The IENA Work in Canada program fee are non-refundable.

Join one of the best work and travel programs today!

How to get a work permit with International Experience Canada (IEC)

Formative experiences in your youth can influence your future career and personal journey. As a young professional or student, you may want to spend time working abroad to enhance your resume and lived experience outside your home country.

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for foreign youth and students to explore the country, be part of a global workforce, earn income while they travel, and decide if they want to settle in Canada permanently . In this article, we look at the types of experiences available under the program and how you can get a work permit with International Experience Canada.

In this article:

What is International Experience Canada (IEC)?

Three types of work and travel experiences under iec, eligibility criteria for international experience canada.

• How can I apply for IEC if I’m not from a partner country?
• How does the International Experience Canada program work?

Apply to work or stay in Canada under IEC

Apply for a work permit after you get an ita under iec.

• Do I need a job offer to apply for a Working Holiday visa for Canada?

Can I decline an invitation to apply for a work permit under IEC?

How much does the application fee for international experience canada cost, can i settle in canada after my iec work permit expires.

International Experience Canada is a youth-exchange program that allows citizens of select countries to travel and work in Canada for up to two years. The Canadian government has reciprocal IEC agreements (also known as Youth Mobility Agreements) with over 30 countries. This makes it easier, faster, and cheaper for young foreign nationals to apply for a Canadian work permit and for Canadian citizens to work and travel abroad.

Working Holiday Visa

The Working Holiday Visa category is best suited for eligible youth who don’t have a Canadian job offer or who want the flexibility to be able to work for more than one employer during their stay in Canada. If you qualify, you’ll receive an open work permit that allows you to work for any eligible employer in Canada or in multiple locations. This category is popular among youth who want to travel across Canada, explore the country, and use the money from their Canadian jobs to fund their stay.

Young Professionals

The Young Professionals category is for applicants who already have a Canadian job offer that contributes to their professional development. Applicants who qualify for the Young Professionals category receive an employer-specific work permit and must work for the same employer in a single location throughout their stay in Canada. 

International Co-op (Internship)

The International Co-op category is for students enrolled at a foreign university or college who need to complete an internship or work placement to get their degree, diploma, or certificate. Eligible applicants for this experience must have an internship or co-op job offer from a Canadian employer and will receive an employer-specific work permit.

To qualify for a work permit with International Experience Canada, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be between 18 and 35 years of age.
• Country of citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country that has an IEC agreement with Canada. Canada has over 30 partner countries, including Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. In some cases, citizens of other countries may also be eligible for a work permit under IEC.
• Valid travel documents: You must have a valid passport for the duration of your stay. The length of your work permit cannot be more than the validity of your passport.
• Proof of funds: You must have at least $2,500 CAD to cover your expenses in Canada. In addition, you must have either a round-trip ticket or the funds to purchase a return ticket at the end of your stay in Canada.
• Admissibility into Canada: You must meet some general admission requirements to enter Canada, including clearing security and criminal checks. Medical tests may be required to work in certain industries.

Applicants to the Young Professional or International Co-op experience categories must also meet category-specific requirements, including having an eligible job offer. Some of these are listed below.

Additional eligibility criteria for Young Professionals

• You must have a valid employment offer in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (previously skill type 0 or skill level A or B) job . If you have a post-secondary education credential, a NOC TEER 4 (previously skill level C) job offer may also be accepted. 
• Your job offer must be for paid work and meet or exceed the province’s minimum wage requirements.
• You must work for the same employer at the same job location in Canada for the duration of your stay.

Additional eligibility criteria for International Co-op

• You must be registered with a post-secondary institution outside Canada.
• Your internship job offer must align with your field of study.
• The internship or work placement must be required to complete your foreign study program.
• The internship can be paid or unpaid, depending on the regulations in the province where you’ll be working.
• You must work for the same employer at one job location in Canada for the duration of your stay.

How can I apply for IEC if I’m not from a partner country? 

Citizens of countries that don’t have an IEC agreement with Canada may be eligible to apply for a work permit with IEC through a recognized organization that offers work and travel support to youth. You can find a complete list of recognized organizations, along with the countries they serve and types of work permits and industries they specialize in, on the Canadian government’s website .

You will need to contact a registered organization that serves your country and sign up for their services. These services may be free or paid. The organization will issue a letter stating they will help you plan your trip or find work in Canada . You will need this letter to qualify for IEC.

How does the International Experience Canada program work? 

When you complete your IEC profile, you have the option of submitting it to the Working Holiday Visa, Young Professionals, or International Co-op pool. In some cases, you may be eligible to apply to more than one IEC pool and will receive a prompt stating which pools are available to you.

Once you submit your profile, it remains active until you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a work permit, you’re no longer eligible for IEC, or the end of the IEC season. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regularly issues ITAs to candidates in the IEC pool during the season. At the end of each IEC season, all remaining profiles are cleared from the pool for a fresh start the following year.

There may be a quota or cap for the number of applicants to be selected from your country. The quota for your country, the number of ITAs issued and candidates in the pool, and your chances of selection are regularly updated on the government’s website .

The application process for a work permit with International Experience Canada includes two parts: submitting your IEC profile and applying for a work permit. Here’s a step-wise overview to help you create and submit your IEC profile:

Step 1: Check your eligibility for International Experience Canada

You can check your eligibility for IEC online. If you already have an IRCC account, you can sign in and select “International Experience Canada” to check if you’re eligible. If you don’t have an account yet, you can proceed without signing in. Fill out the questionnaire to see if you qualify for any of the IEC pools. You’ll need to answer questions about your country of citizenship and permanent residence, where you currently reside, whether you are a student, and if you have a Canadian job offer. 

Step 2: Create and submit an online IEC profile

If you weren’t signed in when you checked your eligibility, create an IRCC account and enter the personal reference code you received at the end of Step 1. If you were signed in and received a positive response, fill out the rest of your IEC profile and submit it directly. You’ll need to provide additional personal information, such as your name, date and place of birth, contact information, and passport details. 

When your profile is complete, IRCC will tell you which IEC pools are available to you, and you can submit your profile to one or more of these pools. You have 60 days to complete and submit your IEC profile.  

Step 3: Wait to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

After submission, your profile is placed in the IEC candidate pool(s) and may stay there for several months. Use this time to gather the documents you’ll need later on for your work permit application. 

If you apply for the Young Professionals or International Co-op category, your employer must pay a $230 CAD employer compliance fee and submit your job offer through the IRCC employer portal. You won’t be able to apply for a work permit until your employer completes these steps.

If your IEC profile is selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a work permit. You will have 10 days to accept or decline the ITA. If you accept, you’ll have another 20 days to complete and submit your work permit application. 

Fill out the online form

Answer all the required questions accurately and provide details about your background, education, and work experience. If you’re applying for the Young Professionals or International Co-op category, enter the seven-digit offer of employment number that your employer shared with you into the form.

Upload essential documents

Once your application is complete, you’ll receive a personalized document checklist with information about the supporting documents you need to provide. Follow the instructions to upload digital copies of your documents and sign them electronically. 

You may be asked to submit your family information, curriculum vitae or resume , police certificates, passport details, job offer (if applicable), or a digital photograph, along with other documents, to support the information in your IEC profile. For the International Co-op category, you also need proof of school registration and proof that the internship aligns with your field of study. 

If you recently lived in certain countries for over six months or if you plan to work in healthcare, education, child or elder care, you may also need to undergo a medical exam.

Pay the fees and submit your application

Use the fee payment tool to review the application cost for the category you’re applying to and pay your fees. Pay all applicable fees, including the biometric and open work permit holder fee, if required. Double-check your application to ensure you haven’t missed any necessary documents and that all your digital copies are legible before you hit “submit.”

Await further instructions

After you submit your application, IRCC will review it for completeness and confirm your eligibility to work in Canada. If you’re eligible, you will receive a message in your IRCC account with instructions on the next steps. You may need to submit your biometrics, provide additional documents, or attend an interview with a visa officer.

After your work permit application is approved

Once your work permit application is approved, you’ll receive a port of entry letter of introduction. This is not your work permit, nor does it guarantee entry into Canada. You must show this letter to the border official while entering Canada to receive a work permit. 

If you require a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, it will be issued along with your work permit. Before you arrive, you also need to purchase health insurance for the duration of your stay.

Do I need a job offer to apply for a Working Holiday Visa for Canada?

Unlike the other two IEC categories, you don’t need a job offer to apply for a Working Holiday Visa for Canada. If you qualify, you can apply for an open work permit that allows you to work for any eligible employer in Canada. You are also allowed to change jobs, relocate to another province or territory , or look for employment while you travel in Canada.

Since you don’t necessarily require a job offer to apply for a Working Holiday Visa, you should enter the following information in your work permit application:

• In the offer of employment number field, type “A9999999.”
• For the question “Has your employer paid the Employer Compliance fee?,” select “No.” 
• In the employer address field, type “Non-applicable – Working Holiday.”

When you receive an invitation to apply for a work permit under International Experience Canada, you have the option of accepting or declining it. Declining an ITA will not impact your chances of being reselected at a later date. Your profile will stay in the IEC pool until the end of the IEC season or until you receive another ITA, provided you still meet other eligibility requirements.

If you’ve applied to more than one IEC category and are confident about securing admission into your preferred category instead of the one you received an ITA for, you may want to decline the ITA.

If you aren’t ready to apply for a work permit within the given timeline or are missing essential documentation, declining an ITA might be a better option as it will allow you to stay in the pool longer. On the other hand, accepting an ITA and then being unable to complete your work permit application will result in disqualification from the IEC pool.

Applicants who receive an ITA must pay an International Experience Canada participation fee of $156 CAD while submitting their work permit application. If you’re required to give biometrics, you need to pay an additional $85 CAD per applicant along with your other fees.

If you apply for the Working Holiday Visa category, you also need to pay an open work permit holder fee of $100 CAD. Young Professionals and International Co-op category applicants don’t need to pay this fee, but their employers must pay the employer compliance fee.

The application fees do not include courier charges, fees charged by the registered organization (if any), the cost of medical exams, travel, or your living expenses in Canada. Use our cost of living in Canada calculator to estimate your monthly living expenses and budget accordingly.

A work permit is a temporary residence permit and you can only stay in Canada until it expires. However, it allows you to gain Canadian work experience and can help you improve your chances of qualifying for permanent residence later on. 

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) immigration program allows individuals with one year or more of Canadian work experience to apply for PR. In addition, Express Entry programs , such as the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and many Provincial Nominee Programs grant applicants additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for Canadian experience or education.

For foreign nationals who want to experience life in Canada and work here for a few years before they decide whether to move to Canada permanently, the International Experience Canada program can be a great starting point.

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Work & Travel

Travel. Work. LIVE!

Do you have a thirst for adventure? Do you want to earn some money while travelling?

Why not combine the two and take part in our exciting Work + Travel Abroad Programs? Get to know the locals, make new friends around the world and explore as many popular or off the beaten track places as you can!

WHY WORK & TRAVEL?

Immerse yourself in another culture, global work experience, endless possibilities, where do you want to go.

Enjoy the travel adventure of a lifetime, and spice up your resume, while immersing yourself in a foreign culture.

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What’s the difference between an International Experience Canada work permit and other work permits?

You can get an International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit only if

• you’re a foreign youth who’s eligible for IEC;
• you have a profile in an IEC pool; and
• you’ve received an invitation to apply for a work permit.

IEC is part of the International Mobility Program, which means employers who hire IEC participants do not need to complete a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) .

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• What kinds of jobs can I have with an International Experience Canada work permit?
• Can I travel with a specific person for International Experience Canada?
• Do I have to apply online for my IEC work permit or can I apply by mail or in person?
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• How long does it take to get an International Experience Canada invitation to apply?

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Theatre Arts

After 25 years as teaching design, Loyce Arthur savors her final production in the Department of Theatre Arts

“One of my favorite parts of working on a show is during the fitting, when an actor puts on their costume,” Loyce Arthur says. “You can see the transformation in their body and their attitude as everything begins to connect. It’s an aha moment. I just love watching them change and become a character right before my eyes.”  

Loyce Arthur is an associate professor of Design in the Department of Theatre Arts, coordinator of the Certificate in Social Justice & Performing Arts, and the costume designer for the UI’s production of In the Red and Brown Water. She has designed costumes for over 100 productions throughout her career, both in the U.S. and abroad. She will be retiring from the University of Iowa theatre faculty after this production and semester.

Loyce was born in Philadelphia, but her family moved to Grenada in the West Indies when she was an infant. They came back to Philadelphia when she was ten and, eventually, she would earn her undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and her MFA degree from NYU.  

“I’d always been involved in theatre and done costumes, but I didn’t know it was a profession until college,” Arthur explains her early interest in design. “I was that kid who was making dioramas, figuring out what people were wearing or what they ate and where they lived. I just enjoyed the world building or world re-creation. I love storytelling, and what we wear contributes to that storytelling.”

After NYU, she designed costumes for the Philadelphia Theatre Caravan that would tour children’s theatre festivals and venues all over the Tri-State area. During ten years with that company, Arthur taught a costume design course at UPenn—beginning a rewarding teaching and professional career that led her to SUNY Stony Brook, around the world, and later brought her here to the University of Iowa.  

“One of the reasons I came to Iowa was because of the focus on the arts,” says Loyce, who joined the Iowa theatre faculty in 1998. “Here, the arts are seen as equal to other kinds of scholarship.”

At Iowa, she has created costumes for many shows including Reefer Madness, American Idiot, and The Magic Flute. “One memorable show has to be Metamorphoses,” Arthur says, recalling working on the production of Mary Zimmermann’s play with colleagues John Cameron (Professor Emeritus) and Bryon Winn (Professor of Design). “John directed, and Bryon built the set. We had a 40-foot pool in Thayer Theatre, which posed some interesting challenges in terms of costume design. We had actors emerging from and swimming in the pool, so the costumes had to work in and out of the water. It was such a fun project.”

“Loyce makes it look effortless,” Bryon Winn describes his experience working with Arthur, “she has such a command of visual languages, textures, fabrics, cultures, color and the human form. I’ve worked with Loyce for 25 years and you could not ask for a better colleague.”

Arthur has relished the opportunity to mentor young design students and cultivate their skills. “In the design department, we always say we can teach all the techniques,” Arthur explains, “but we can’t teach the spark. It’s so exciting when a student starts making creative leaps, putting ideas together in three-dimensional forms. I love watching them explore, persevere, and grow during their time here.”  

Arthur has also been active in the Iowa City arts community—for example, spearheading the Iowa City Carnival Community Engagement Project.  

The project began when Arthur was approached by the Stanley Museum of Art (then the UI Museum of Art) to do a faculty show. “I wanted to do it around Trinidadian and Brazilian-style Carnival,” says Loyce, who has done extensive research on Carnival traditions. In 2004 she presented her work on Trinidad Carnival at a symposium in Santiago de Cuba and she has researched carnival traditions in the UK, Toronto Canada, Rio de Janeiro Brazil, the Netherlands, Trinidad, and around the world.  

In June 2008, the museum and its contents were permanently evacuated during major flooding of the Iowa River, and plans for the faculty show had to be postponed.  

“I started thinking,” Arthur says, “Wouldn’t it be interesting to do a Carnival parade here?” She teamed up with Armando Duarte, a UI professor of dance and researcher of Brazilian popular culture, Andre Harrington, Professor in Costume Design at UC San Bernardino, and Carnival designers Clary Slangy from the UK and Jamie Cezario from Brazil, along with local artists and students.

“We didn’t want it to be a pageant. We needed to get the spirit of Carnival,” Arthur explains. “For me that spirit comes from creating these garments. So, it was important for us to bring the community together and make it a collective project. We came up with the perfect tagline—Iowans Become Works of Art.” Iowa City’s Carnival parade happened annually from 2013-2020 as part of the city’s Iowa Arts Festival.

In collaboration with Lisa Schlesinger, professor and co-director of the Iowa Playwrights Workshop, and Mary Beth Easley, associate professor of directing and chair of the Department of Theatre Arts, Arthur helped establish and now coordinates the UI Certificate in Social Justice and the Performing Arts. The certificate allows performing arts students the opportunity to learn methods and practices for social justice-focused and community engaged creative work, customizing their studies towards their own advocacy interests with the help and guidance of faculty mentors.  

“Working with Loyce is fantastic,” says Jason Vernon, a second-year student in theatre arts who is pursuing a certificate in social justice and performing arts. “She’s very receptive to my interests, but she also knows how to challenge me. She asks the questions I need to get to the next level or think about engagement through a wider lens.”

In the spring semester of 2024, Arthur created costumes for Tarell Alvin McCraney’s In the Red and Brown Water, directed by Caroline Clay, assistant professor of acting.  

“I’m so glad Caroline and I got the chance to work together before I leave,” Arthur says.

In the Red and Brown Water revolves around a young woman named Oya who has opportunity and aspirations, but because of circumstances she is not able to fulfill her promise. Arthur calls the story “a slice of life in an African American community, but it’s heightened because the playwright gives the characters the names of Orishas, or divine spirits, from the Yoruba religion.”  

“There are little things in the costumes that reference the Orishas but not in an overt way,” Arthur explains her approach to the costumes. “For me, the costumes are there to help the actor understand their character and, for the audience, the costumes help reinforce the character. We spend an hour and half looking at these characters, and the costumes can really contribute to the way the audience sees and relates to the story.”

In the Red and Brown Water will be Loyce’s final production as a faculty member in the Department of Theatre Arts before she embarks on her next adventure.  

“I’d consider the next phase more of a redirection than a retirement,” Arthur says about the next phase of her career.  

In July, she will travel to Mozambique for eight weeks as part of an eco-volunteering marine conservation project working with scientists who study humpback whales—followed by a trip to South Africa to do wildlife conservation on a game reserve. Then she’ll head to Indonesia next spring to teach as a Fulbright Scholar.

“I was here for 25 years because it’s a great department,” Arthur says, looking back at her time at the University of Iowa. “It’s full of talented artists, faculty, and students who come together to produce some amazing theater. It has been my privilege and an honor to be part of this department and looking back over 25 years, if you stay in a place that long, it’s got to be a fantastic place to be. It has been one of the best times of my life.”