Help CentreImportant: 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'.
We will provide you with guidance for your International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit application. Without it, you cannot work at summer camp in a support worker role. You can read more about it in our 'IEC Overview - Work & Travel' article.
The below will provide more clarity on what documents are required before you arrive to Canada on your IEC.
IEC - Open Work Permit
What documents do I need to arrive in Canada with?
You will be required to show these documents to the immigration officer at the Canadian border to officially obtain your IEC work permit:
- Letter of Introduction
- Proof of funds
- A bank statement showing at least $2,500 CAD (issued within 1 week of your departure)
- Health Insurance
- This must cover your entire length of stay in Canada. Camp Canada will provide you with up to 12 weeks of comprehensive health insurance.
What is required for Health Insurance?
Your health insurance must cover the entire time you plan to remain in Canada. If you plan to remain in Canada after camp, please ensure you purchase insurance for that time period. This must be purchased before you fly. An IEC cannot be extended on the basis of health insurance once you are in Canada.
It's important that your insurance covers:
- medical care
- hospitalization
- repatriation
Before purchasing your policy, ask your provider what medical coverage is included.
Important: If you don’t have sufficient coverage, you may be denied entry into Canada.
The details on my work permit look incorrect.
Check all the following information is correct on your IEC before you leave immigration:
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- Nationality
- Expiry Date
Amending these details after you leave the airport is extremely difficult and can affect your time in Canada (e.g., if your dates are incorrect then you legally may not be able to work the time stipulated in your camp contract)
I have a connecting flight in Canada, where do I recieve my IEC?
You need to apply for your IEC at the first port of entry into Canada (e.g., if your final destination is Vancouver but you land in Toronto first, you will need to apply for your work permit in Toronto).
Ensure you leave enough time between connecting flights to apply for this.
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Can I use my IEC to work a different job in Canada?
Onward Travel to Summer Camp
What's my onward travel instructions?
You should have in your hand a copy of your onward travel instructions. You can visit the ‘Travel and Flights’ section of your Camp Canada profile to print these instructions out before you fly. Contact the Camp Canada’s helpline at any time during your travels if you need assistance.
Getting Paid
How do I get paid by my camp?
Arrival into Canada | Camp Canada Help Center
Yes. an IEC is an open work permit. You can use this to work for different employers.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You require a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to be paid by your employer. It is a 9-digit number that should not be shared with anyone except your employer. There is no fee to apply for a SIN. You must apply for your SIN as soon as possible, however if you are applying online please wait 3-5 days after obtaining your IEC to start your SIN application.
You cannot apply for your SIN until you have obtain your IEC at the border.
How do I apply for my SIN?
There are two ways to apply for your SIN:
- at the airport (after customs but before baggage claim)
- online after obtaining your IEC (you can find our guide in your Camp Canada portal at the 'Ready to Fly' stage, or on your Arrival Instructions/Arrival Checklist documents)
Do all airports have SIN clinics?
No, not all Canadian airports have a Service Canada. If the airport you arrive in does not have a Service Canada then you will need to apply for your SIN online.Are SIN clinics open 24/7 in the airports?
Are SIN clinics open 24/7 in the airports?
No. They usually open Monday-Friday, check online to see their business hours (depending on the airport).
Connecting Flights in Canada
If you are on a connecting flight, check with your airline if you need to re-check your luggage. If it’s the same airline and same ticket, your baggage will automatically be transferred to your next flight. However, if you're switching airlines then you may need to re-check your luggage.
If you have a boarding pass for the next flight, just check the information screens for your departure gate. If you did not get your boarding pass when you left your home country, just ask for it at the airline’s service desk. Don’t be afraid to ask an airport staff member if you’re unsure.
Note: Keep an eye on the airport screens for gate changes as this happens frequently.
Onward Travel to Summer Camp
What's my onward travel instructions?
You should have in your hand a copy of your onward travel instructions. You can visit the ‘Travel and Flights’ section of your Camp Canada profile to print these instructions out before you fly.