FAQs

Applying

When should I apply for the BUNAC Work Canada programme?
We recommend that you apply as soon as possible to take full advantage of all the support services.
Who can apply for Work Canada?
You must be aged 18-30 (inclusive) at the time of application and be a British passport holder.
I have been on Work Canada with BUNAC before. Can I go again?
Yes
Do a lot of people travel on their own?
Yes. Many participants decide to book a BUNAC group flight, which provides a great opportunity to meet other BUNACers before you even arrive in Canada. It is a good idea to book your first night’s accommodation in advance. This is included as part of the group flight package. Our partner organisation, SWAP, has a great social programme giving you the chance to meet other like-minded travellers. Travelling independently can be daunting however Work Canada makes it easy for you to settle in, make new friends and get the most out of your experience.
What will it cost?
You should budget for the following costs:
  • Work Canada Programme (£254)
  • Flight costs (either BUNAC Group Flight or independent)
  • Work Permit fee (CAN$150)
  • Insurance (The BUNAC Work Abroad cover is available for up to 12 months. Request a quote)
  • Support funds (the Canadian Government requires that you have access to at least $2,500 on entry to Canada
  • Cost of obtaining an ACPO Police Check
  • cost of an overseas Police Check if applicable.

Accommodation

Where will I live?
Most people stay in a hostel for their first few nights in Canada then arrange more long-term accommodation once they know where they will be working. It is common for people to share with other participants they meet on the Group Flight. The Work Canada Handbook has information on hostels in Toronto and Vancouver which are recommended for your initial stay and also offers advice on how to search for more long term accommodation. Our partner organisation, SWAP, advertises properties with rooms available and are on hand to help you find somewhere to live.

Work

How will you help me find work?
We are here to offer advice and support. Once you are on the programme, you will have access to a BUNAC Work Canada Handbook which has useful advice on job hunting and lists the best websites to use for your search. Once in Canada, SWAP’s offices have job boards, computers and knowledgeable staff who can assist you with your job hunt. SWAP staff will be able to offer CV and cover letter writing assistance and interview advice, as well as help you to obtain your SIN (Social Insurance Number) which you will need before you begin working.
Do I have to pre-arrange work?
No, you can job hunt on arrival in Canada, even if you do pre-arrange work this visa does not restrict you to that employer so you can still change jobs when you get to Canada if you wish.
What kind of work do people do?
You can do almost anything on this work permit. A lot of people tend to do casual work as this is relatively easy to find e.g. working in a shop, restaurant or hotel. However, as the visa is for 12 months it is possible to find a more career related job (e.g. if you are a qualified teacher, you can get a teaching job in Canada). Ski resorts are popular destinations for skiing enthusiasts to work during the winter season and many of the employers in these resorts offer a ski pass as a perk of the job.
How long can I work for?
The Canadian work permit is very flexible. It allows you to work anywhere in Canada. You can go for 3 months or up to 12 months – it’s up to you. There are no restrictions on how long you can work for any one company so you can stay in the same job for the full 12 months or move on to another employer whenever you want.

Flights & Insurance

Do I have to take BUNAC’s insurance policy?
No, you can arrange your own insurance but you are required to have comprehensive health care and repatriation insurance valid for the entire duration of your permit. Once on the programme, we can email you information on what an insurance policy should cover e.g. medical expenses, repatriations, single trip cover etc. BUNAC, in partnership with Endsleigh, has designed a special insurance policy aimed at meeting the needs of people taking part in an extended working holiday overseas.