Young Professionals Visa
Status 2022
- New Zealand nationals - open now
- UK nationals - opens on the 2nd February at 10am UK time. Bookings can only be made online - click here to book.
- US nationals - open now
Calling all Young Professionals! Looking for some career related international experience after graduating or looking to gain some industry experience in your work field? Already been to Canada on an IEC working holiday visa and looking to head back? BUNAC’s Work Canada Young Professionals program enables those with a job offer in Canada to work for 12- 24 months depending on your nationality.
What is the Young Professionals work permit?
The Young Professionals visa category is an employer specific work permit for those who have a job offer in Canada prior to arriving. It also enables those who have already been to Canada on an IEC working holiday visa to return to Canada to work for an additional 12-24 months depending on your nationality. If you’ve secured an offer of employment with a Canadian employer, let BUNAC assist you with obtaining a Young Professionals work permit!
FAQs
Who is eligible for the program?
To be eligible to apply to the program, you’ll need to hold a UK, US or NZ passport and be aged between 18-35.
How long can I work in Canada on the Young Professionals visa?
UK passport holders can participate for up to a maximum of 24 months, however most employers generally offer employment contracts for around 12 months.
US passport holders can participate for up to 12 months.
What type of work qualifies for the visa?
Your job offer must be classified as a National Occupational Classification (NOC) code level 0, A or B as listed as here. All work needs to be paid and voluntary positions are not suitable for this type of visa.
Does my job offer need to be related to my degree?
No – your job offer does not need to be directly related to your studies. It does need to be classified as a National Occupational Classification (NOC) code level 0, A or B. Contact the team to check if your job offer is suitable.
Can I complete my placement year in Canada on the Young Professional program?
Yes, you can complete the program as part of a placement year providing your specific university can confirm the job offer qualifies.
Why do I need to apply through BUNAC to participate?
The Young Professional visa category is only available through Recognized Organizations (RO’s) of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). BUNAC work with SWAP Working Holidays. Together we’ll assist you with providing the correct documents and authorizing letter needed to apply to the Young Professionals scheme with the Canadian Government.
I've already had an IEC Working Holiday Visa, can I apply for a Young Professional Visa?
Yes! If you've already participated in the IEC working holiday program you can apply for a Young Professionals visa. You would need to have secured a job offer with a Canadian employer and meet the other visa eligibility requirements to benefit from returning to Canada to work for up to 24 months on the Young Professionals visa.