Eligibility - Work & Travel

4 min. readlast update: 01.10.2025

Important: This is only for participants in our Work & Travel program, if you wish to work as a camp counselor/activity specialist then see our articles in 'About Camp'. 

 


Please read below about all the eligibility criterea for our program.

 

What dates do I need to be available?

Camps start between early May and mid-June. Depending on your role, you will need to be available for 12 weeks after your start date. 

Is there an age limit for summer camp?

The only age requirement is that you must be 18-30 by June 1st (you may be eligible up to 35 years old depending on country of citizenship, get in touch to find out more)

Do I have to be a student to apply?

You must be a full-time student or plan to become one. Most camps require student status, and non-student positions are very limited.

You are eligible for placement at any of our camps if you can answer yes to one or more of these questions:

  • You are currently enrolled as a full-time student, and you will graduate in or after April the season you are applying for.

  • You intend on becoming a full-time student within one year of finishing camp. 

Here are some examples of individuals who are eligible for student status:

  • Someone who is on a gap year, and will start university when they return from their Canadian adventure.

  • Someone who is planning to do a Masters, or further education program when they return from camp.

  • Someone who is completing a full-time apprenticeship or training program for a particular profession.

I'm a student and don't know my exam dates yet, what should I do?

Camp roles have various start dates, typically between early May and mid-June, and finish 12 weeks after the start date.

Do I need to have a police check to go to summer camp?

Yes, everyone needs an enhanced valid police check. The police check must be in date from the 1st September of the year you are applying.

I have a criminal history. Am I still eligible?

Acceptances will be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the other factors of their application. 

It is essential that you are truthful and transparent about any criminal history that may be revealed on your police check. It can affect the following:

  • Your IEC work permit approval

The details of your conviction will be shared with your camp employer.

Why do I need references to go to summer camp?

To work at summer camp you need 2 professional references. The 2 referees need to have known you for over 6 months, can’t be a relative, and should be one of the following:

  • Employer/Supervisor

  • Teacher

  • Coach

  • Lecturer

  • Religious Leader

If you have previously worked at a summer camp, one of your referees must be from that employer.

I'm struggling to find 2 references, what should I do?

You can have 2 of the same type of referee (e.g., you can have 2 references from 2 different teachers), these can also all be from the same organization (e.g., your school/university). If you're struggling to get a reply to your reference request you can resend the request from your profile.

Do I need to be able to speak English?

Yes. It is a requirement to be able to speak a basic level of English.

Do I need to be from a particular country to apply?

Yes, we only accept applicants with citizenship from countries that are eligible to obtain an IEC Working Holiday permit. You must be a citizen from one of the following countries:

Eligible Countries of Citizenship 

When is the deadline to apply for camp with Camp Canada Work & Travel program?

The latest date to apply for the season is mid-January.

 

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