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International Rural Exchange Canada

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About International Rural Exchange Canada

International Rural Exchange Canada is a non-profit organization that has been facilitating paid work-travel experiences for young adults from Canada and abroad since 1985. We are a recognized organization of the Government of Canada and can help travellers access work permits through the International Experience Canada Program. We work with trusted partners overseas to offer young people valuable opportunities with screened and accountable employers. We facilitate over 200 placements annually to Canadian host families, primarily in the sector of agriculture and our A-Way to Work program provides international work experiences and internships to Canadian students and young adults in several sectors, including agriculture, horticulture, viticulture, agri-tourism, hospitality and more.

We recently introduced our GoSolo program for more independent travellers. We provide support, tips, and guidance so you can travel confidently, handle challenges, and make the most of your adventure without losing your freedom. We built this program for you to explore the world on your own terms.

International Rural Exchange Canada Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about International Rural Exchange Canada

5.0
1 review

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Participated in a International Rural Exchange Canada Program? Share your experience now.

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Ayden HoslerCanada · October 2026
From: Agriculture Jobs Abroad – Paid Working Holiday for Canadians

I moved to Australia and road tripped around Europe!

Australia gave me a lot of completely different experiences. I got to work in rural Australia, travel along the east coast with my best friend, learn how to surf at a surf camp, see Uluru, and meet people from around the world. One of the things I liked most was that there was always something else to experience. Australia is huge, and the farm was only one chapter of the trip. Once I started travelling, every place felt different. Some of my best memories came from simply saying yes when an opportunity came up.

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Contact International Rural Exchange Canada

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about International Rural Exchange Canada.

Who is Eligible to Participate With A-Way To Work?

Interested applicants must meet all the following requirements:

  • Canadian Citizens between the age of 18 and 35 (some countries are only inclusive to 30 years old)
  • Hold a valid Canadian Passport that will not expire while abroad
  • Be of good mental and physical health
  • Clear criminal record check
  • Are mature, flexible and open-minded
  • Not travelling with any dependents
  • Can provide evidence of financial stability
  • Other eligibility requirements may apply t

What is A-Way To Work?

A-Way To Work is a program offered by International Rural Exchange Canada (IREC).

IREC is a non-profit and Recognized Organization under International Experience Canada (IEC) that has been facilitating international work and travel opportunities for over 40 years! Through Canada’s Youth Mobility Agreements, we help young Canadians (ages 18- 35) obtain Working Holiday Visa Authorizations to live, work and travel abroad

What Qualifications Do I Need to Participate in a work abroad program

This entirely depends on where you want to travel and what kind of experience you want. If you are planning to travel with one of our partner organizations, check the program details on the A-Way to Work website to learn more about each program’s requirements. Every country has different requirements to qualify for their Working Holiday Visa, or equivalent under the Youth Mobility Agreements.

Is My Driver's License Valid Abroad?

This is dependent on the country. Graduated Canadian Driver’s licenses are valid in many countries, but it is always advised that you do your own research on the particular country you want to travel to. It is always recommended, and sometimes required, that you travel with an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). These are available at any CAA across Canada, and can generally be issued the same day.

Have more questions?

We're here to help!

The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and International Rural Exchange Canada is also happy to answer any questions you have.

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