Work Canada

You could choose to work in one of Canada’s outstanding ski areas in the winter, or experience big city life in Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal year-round. Summer options might include working in a Canadian coastal, mountain or lakeside resort. Canada has much to offer, it’s easy to get there and participants can quickly settle into Canadian life.

Work Canada is a program authorized by the Canadian Government to allow US college/university students aged 18-30 to work and travel in Canada. The Canadian sponsor is SWAP, Student Work Abroad Programs. While you are in Canada, SWAP provides on the spot backup and support.

Work Canada offers:

• Free choice of arrival date into Canada
• Pre-departure support from BUNAC
• A six month Work Authorization
• Discounted, comprehensive worldwide travel insurance (BUNAC insurance is mandatory)
• SWAP hosting centers including job and accommodation listings plus social program and general advice from friendly, knowledgeable staff. The offices also have online computer facilities, telephones and a mail drop and forwarding service
• Arrival orientation with important information to prepare you for your stay, advice on bank accounts, tax, applying for a SIN (Social Insurance Number) as well as practical information on job and accommodation hunting
• Fast processing, no express fees
• Special phonecard including voice mail
• 24-hour emergency assistance from SWAP.

How the program works

BUNAC will issue you with a SWAP Certificate of Participation. On arrival at a Canadian Port of Entry, you present this certificate to Canadian Immigration along with acceptable identification (preferably a US passport). You will then be issued with your Canadian work visa - the Open Employment Authorization document, valid for up to six months. Please note you MUST have the Certificate of Participation from BUNAC in your hand when you enter Canada.

You choose the date you wish to enter Canada within your eligibility period and book your own travel accordingly. If you submit full-time student status for Fall 2007 you must enter Canada by August 15th 2008. Spring 2008 student status will permit entry up to February 15th 2009.

It is strongly recommended that you attend an arrival orientation. Orientations are held at SWAP offices in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, although orientations in Montreal are limited to one a week from September to May.