2024 - FULL - Applications Closed 2025 - Applications open 1st Nov 2024

Canada Winter

Live, work & play in Canada’s top ski resorts

Our Winter program offers an authentic and life-changing adventure for youths worldwide. Whether you stay for one season or two years, TWHC has got you covered!

Our 'Powder Team' of well-travelled consultants with years of experience placing travellers in ski resort jobs will guide you through the visa application process, job interview, and all your departure and arrival processes.

We offer Canadian working holiday packages that include hints, tips, and everything you need to know about visa costs, ski resorts, and job availabilities. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!

Our Winter package Inclusions

Our Employers

Whistler Blackcomb

The largest ski resort in Nth America and is consistently rated in the top 3 resorts in the world. Huge terrain, consistant snowfall and great nightlife!

Season: Late Nov- April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Lift operations, tube park, various food, & beverage, retail, rentals, ski school sales, guest services, tickets

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Aus, NZ

Last Frontier Heliskiing

Situated in Northern British Columbia, 360km North of Terrace, Last Frontier Heliskiing operates the largest single heliski area in the world.

Season: Mid-Dec to Mid-April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 22

Jobs: Admin assistant, transfer co-ordinators, ski tech, servers, front desk staff, café attendant, head chef, sous chef, line chef, kitchen support

Eligible Nations: Global

Interview locations: Online & Vernon

Nakiska Mt Resort

Due to Nakiska’s close proximity of only 45 mins to Calgary they are known as ‘Calgary’s learning mountain’. Built specifically for the 1988 Winter Olympic Games it consists of long runs and meticulous grooming.

Season: November to April

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Staff accom provided

Min age: 20

Jobs: Snowmaking, lift operations, retail, rental, guest services, food & beverage

Eligible Nations: Australia, NZ

Interview locations: Australia

Lake Louise Ski Resort

Lake Louise is consistently acclaimed the most scenic ski area on the planet and legendary for light, dry, champagne powder, bright blue skies and an astounding 4,200 acres. Glacier Skywalk.

Season: Late Nov - April

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Snowmaking, lift ops, retail, rental, guest services, snowmaking, food & beverage.

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Australia

Mike Wiegele Heli Skiing

We ski over 1.5 million acres of some of the most picturesque and breath- taking mountain terrain in the world, and we want to share it. A day of heli-skiing is only as good as your guide. Ours know no boundaries

Season: Early Nov – late May

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Most jobs come with staff housing

Min age: 19

Jobs: Lift operations, food & bev, support roles, guest services

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Australia

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers an incredible opportunity to gain valuable and credible work experience while enjoying all the exciting benefits that life in Whistler offers.

Season: Winter: Nov-April

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 20

Jobs: Room Attendant, Housekeeping Att Steward, Cook, Bellperson, Server, Banquet Server, Golf Operations, Golf Maintenance, Gardener, Health Club and much more…

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Online

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is an iconic Canadian hotel located in the heart of Banff National Park. It is an adventure lover’s dream. In winter, staff spend their days snow-boarding, and skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort.

Season: Winter - Nov to end April Summer - May - Oct

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Room Attendant, Housekeeping Attendant, Steward (Dishwasher), Cook, Bellperson, Server, Banquet Server

Eligible Nations: Canada Work Visa Holders

Interview locations: Online or Aus & NZ

Fairmont Banff Springs

Located in Canada’s first National Park, Fairmont Banff Springs is surrounded by pristine Canadian wilderness and offers unmatched adventure in every season of the year. Norquay, Sunshine Village & Lake Louise Resorts within an hour drive.

Season: Winter - Nov to end April

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Room Attendant, Housekeeping Attendant, Steward (Dishwasher), Cook, Bellperson, Server, Banquet Server

Eligible Nations: Canada Work Visa Holders

Interview locations: Online or Aus & NZ

Fairmont Jasper Lodge

Located in the heart of Jasper National Park, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge offers a quintessential Canadian experience. The town of Jasper is cited as “Canada’s Cabin Capital” and Jasper Park Lodge leans into this nickname with their luxury cabin-style rooms.

Season: Winter - Nov to end April

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Room Attendant, Housekeeping Attendant, Steward (Dishwasher), Cook, Bellperson, Server, Banquet Server

Eligible Nations: Canada Work Visa Holders

Interview locations: Online or Aus & NZ

Sunpeaks Resort

4,270 acres are spread across three skiable peaks, each with its unique personality. The resort contains a ski-through, European-style village that is filled with restaurants, cafés, shops, and more!

Season: Oct/ Nov - April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Resort and hotelemployees.

Min age: 19

Jobs: With over 700 employees in the Winter across the resort andhotel, there are many opportunities across all our departments.

Eligible Nations: Australia & NZ

Interview locations: Australia

Silverstar Mt Resort

Silverstar Mountain Resort has small-town charm and is a welcoming place for international seasonal workers.

Season: Early Dec to start of April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 21

Jobs: Outdoor roles, F&B, rental, retail, ltd finance, ski school sales, support roles

Eligible Nations: Australia, NZ, Ireland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, Norway

Interview locations: Aus, NZ

Cypress Mountain

Only 20 mins from downtown Vancouver - you get the best of both worlds. Work a ski season while having all the luxuries of big city life at your doorstep. this is the place for you.

Season: Dec 5th – Early April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Cooks, dishwasher, floorsupervisors, server, cashier, busser, barista, ski & snowboard tech, rental cashier, repair tech, lift attendant, snow school attendant and more

Eligible Nations: Australia & NZ

Interview locations: Australia

Kicking Horse

Kicking Horse has advanced terrain, Backcountry powder skiing, big open bowls and double blacks

Season: Late Nov-April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Lift operations, tube park, various food & beverage, rentals, retail, finance, ski school sales, guest services, tickets

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Aus, NZ

Grouse Mt Resort

Grouse Mountain offers a challenging and enjoyable work environment with a world of career opportunity. Vancouver’s favourite Mountain 15 mins from the city, unbelievable night skiing.

Season: Late Nov-April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: No

Min age: 19

Jobs: Lift operator, ice rink attendants, sleigh drivers, rental technicians, call centre operators, baristas, guest services and cooks

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Aus, NZ

Sunshine Village

Sunshine Village is one of 3 resorts in the locality of Banff. The Banff region attracts thousands of tourists, making it one of the best places to work a season for those who like to be amongst the action.

Season: Early Nov– late May

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Most jobs come with staff housing

Min age: 19

Jobs: Lift operations, food & beverage, support roles, guest services

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Australia

Westin Resort Whistler

The year-round beauty of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains is the background for our warm and welcoming resort, found in the stylish pedestrian village of Whistler.

Season: Late Nov-April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Limited to front desk and housekeeping

Eligible Nations: Aus, NZ

Interview locations: Aus, NZ

Marmot Basin

Located in the heart of Jasper National Park, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, Marmot Basin and the Jasper SkyTram are two of the most popular destinations in the Rocky Mountains, attracting 380,000 visitors each year.

Season: October to Early May

Jasper Sky-Tram Season: March – November

Province: Alberta

Accommodation: Yes – Partial (Some available but not guaranteed)

Min age: 19

Jobs: Central Reservations Agent, Guest Services Agent, Guest Services Coordinator, Lift Operator, Rentals Department Attendant, Retail Associate, Sales and Event Representative, Office Admin Coverage, Snowmaking, Terrain Park Attendant, Transportation

Eligible Nations: Anybody who is eligible to obtain a Canadian Working Holiday Visa

Interview locations: Online

Four Seasons, Whistler

Four Seasons operates year round and is the only Forbes Five Star Resort in all of Canada. Nestled near the base of Blackcomb mountain, working at the Four Seasons Resort Whistler is an unforgettable way to spend your working holiday in Canada!

Season: November – April

Province: British Columbia

Accommodation: Yes

Min age: 19

Jobs: Guestroom Attendant, House attendant, Overnight Cleaner, Server Assistant, IRD Server, Banquet Server, Host/ess, Steward, Overnight Steward & more!

Eligible Nations: Anyone eligible for a Canadian Working Holiday Visa

Interview locations: Online via Zoom or Microsoft Teams

Our Job Opportunities

Canadian Visa Eligibility

Hold Australian/NZ passport

With at least 2 years remaining on application. If your passport has expired, or expires within 2 years, renew it now

Aged 19 -35 years

Inclusive (However must be 19 by the time you would start work for our programs)

No criminal convictions

Including serious traffic convictions. Minor offenses may be admissible

Have Travel Insurance

For the ENTIRE duration of your stay in Canada

Proof of Funds

Provide documentary evidence on arrival in Canada of access to minimum $2,500 CAD

Submit Biometrics

Submit your information at a biometrics office in your country and pay $85 CAD Fee

What country are you in?

We have dedicated support teams for each country. Please select the country you are applying from.

AUS

$1599

Paid in AUD
Apply Now

NZ

$1599

Paid in AUD
Apply Now

UK/EU

£845

 
Apply Now

Our Application Process

Learn More About Canada Winter

Watch

Canada winter explainer videos

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Faq's

About Canada Winter Jobs

  • Hotel experience or working in a luxury high-end environment is required. We do not recommend applying for hotel work if you do not have previous work experience in a hotel unless you are prepared to work in Housekeeping.
  • Hardworking
  • Physically fit/able-bodied
  • Able to work unsupervised
  • Ability to anticipate guests’ needs
  • Working disposition is offering “above and beyond” at all times
  • Able to take direction from both males and females
  • Flexible with working hours as some roles may start early and or late in the day
  • Happy to give any role their best with a positive attitude
  • Those looking for career moves in the hotel industry
  • Recognise that working in back-of-house roles provides valuable insight for future front-of-house positions. Back-of-house work experience gives a better understanding of how back-of-house operations impact front-of-house performance, and vice versa. As a result, individuals with back-of-house experience often become more effective leaders and managers because of their back of house experience.

  • Flexible and adaptable to working conditions & environments
  • Hardworking
  • Physically fit /able-bodied
  • Able to work unsupervised
  • Able to take direction from both males and females
  • Happy to give any role their best with a positive attitude
  • Not looking for a career experience - more of a working holiday
  • Willing to work both indoors and outdoors
  • Able to work in sub-0 temperatures with a positive attitude

The majority of our Winter interviews are usually held every year between June – August. Applications for winter typically open in Oct/Nov the year prior to allow enough time to obtain visas and collate application forms.

We facilitate interviews with Resort/Hotel managers either in person or virtually, between June-August. Successful applicants will have a job contract in their hand before they even book their flights to Canada! (Whilst virtual interviews are available, we highly recommend attending in person)

  • Our resort & hotel partners provide us with an exact number of positions to fill each season.
  • Employers will send successful applicants - job contract, start date, rate of pay & the specific position – months before your departure date.

Job offers are usually emailed directly to successful applicants from the employer. This email contains specific information regarding the specific role/department you have been offered, rate of pay, and start date. You will be contacted by TWHC regardless of your interview outcome. Departure & Arrival information will be made available to you shortly after your job offer so you can begin organising your mission to Canada!

We only take the number of applicants for jobs that we have, and we give you all the tools you need to pass the interview. In the unlikely event you are not offered a role, we request specific feedback from your interviewer as to why they chose not to offer you a role. TWHC will contact you with options based on seasonal availability and feedback from the recruiter. Should you not be offered a role after multiple attempts we will refund your program fee less deposit.

Once your location is approved, you will be able to access your resort-specific application form. Once completed, this form will eventually be sent to the resort/hotel for consideration before your interview. The resort-specific application form allows applicants to upload their personal information and explain why they should be hired. This form requires applicants to upload their resume, 2 x written references (typed on company letterhead), a smiling photo and other written information about themselves and their experiences. (Not having a dog, booze, or other people in your photo! Smiling and shirt on please ☺)

An interview with a Canadian ski resort or hotel representative will be set up on a one-on-one scenario and usually lasts 15-30 mins. This can be either a virtual or face-to-face interview. This date is usually set up months in advance, allowing applicants to fully prepare themselves by researching the location where they plan to spend the next 6-24 months. Applicants will not be advised at the time of their interview if they were successful or not. Recruiters prefer to interview all applicants so they can determine the best applicants for the roles on offer. It doesn’t matter if you’re the first interview or the very last interview, all applicants are considered based on their skills, personality, and interview performance.

Resort locations are filled on a first-in best-dressed basis so the earlier you apply with us, the more locations you will have to choose from. TWHC will approve your location based on your previous work experience & pre-employment assessment.

For positions, you will put in your preferred job roles you would like to do at that resort/hotel. The recruiter ultimately determines the best fit for you in their team. This will be based on your interview performance, personality, skills & experience. As far as placement – this also depends on the needs of the employer, and should they determine that you would be better suited to another role altogether – they will discuss these opportunities with you.

Certain positions are very popular, so you may want to consider listing some different preferences. Remember, flexibility is an attractive trait for all employers! The job you applied for might have many others applying for it as well, so consider the role and your suitability carefully. For example, many people apply for lift operator roles… Those people who have worked outside or in physically demanding roles will have a distinct advantage over those who have never had a physical job. Reading and understanding job descriptions and how they will apply to you is incredibly important when considering jobs for six months or more. Again, read and research the roles you are interested in. All roles have pluses and minuses.

The job you are offered is in the hands of your employer based on your interview performance, skills, personality, and previous/current work experience. This will also depend on availability and staff requirements. The recruiter knows their workplace best and is the one to decide where they feel you would be the best fit and succeed.

Choosing to decline a job offer means you forfeit your funds and are not eligible for any further assurance.

Exceptional & consistent work performance is the biggest factor for applicants having their seasonal contracts extended through the following season. While your employment contract might be extended it is recommended that you clarify and confirm with management that staff housing is also included. The programme fee covers employment for one season only. We are not responsible for and cannot offer ongoing employment options for future seasons. An extension of a contract is based on seasonal performance and employer availability.

As mentioned above, TWHC fee covers employment for one season only. We are not responsible for and cannot offer ongoing employment options for future seasons.

Given you will have months of in-country experience, the ability to track down ongoing employment will be easier compared to new arrivals. Applicants should request letters of reference from current employers before applying for further roles as these references can open doors quicker than those applying from overseas locations.

TWHC appreciates individuals, however Canadian Employers can be quite conservative, and their grooming policies reflect that. To give yourself the best chance of success we recommend removing all (except 2 in the ear) piercings and having natural coloured, tidy hair. Multiple facial piercings, facial tattoos, hand tattoos (basically any tattoos not covered by a long sleeve shirt) dreadlocks, spacers or unnaturally coloured hair can all hinder your job opportunities. Please disclose these before applying. Once you receive a job offer, you’ll be informed of any special uniform requirements by your employer. In general, it is a good idea to make sure you bring black shoes, pants, and a white shirt for indoor positions as a base for the uniform. For outdoor positions you will be provided with the outer layers – like shell pants, a jacket, and a fleece. You will need to supply your own gloves, boots, and under layers + skiing/riding equipment. Each resort is a little bit different, but they all expect tidy and consistent grooming. You may need to cut off dreads or dye your hair a natural colour if you have a more alternative style. Visible tattoos on hands, fingers, face or neck are a no-go for most resorts and certainly high-end hotels.

Costs Involved

  • Canada Powder program $1599 (AUS & NZ) £845 (UK & EU).
  • Must be able to show you have a minimum $2,500 CAD savings (Or funds available on credit card) upon entry to Canada.
  • Visa cost is $346 CAD ($261 application fee + $85 biometrics fee).
  • Travel to VAC location to submit your biometrics in person.
  • Flights (If one way you need to show you have the equivalent funds of a return ticket available on top of your minimum funds).
  • Travel Insurance. This is mandatory and you need to show you have a travel insurance policy for the entire length of your stay in Canada upon entry. TWHC has great insurance discounts we will pass on with job offers.
  • Transport from Vancouver/Calgary to your resort. This cost differs depending on your location, as resorts/hotels can range from 2-14 hours from the closest airport. It's best to allow approx. $60 - $300 CAD for your transport to your resort which we will assist you to book.
  • Staff Housing Deposit – You will need to pay your housing deposit upon accepting your staff housing spot. This is usually your first month's rent in advance. (Approx $750 - $1500).

  • The security of knowing that you have every facet of your working holiday experience organized pre-departure.
  • Pre-arranged interview with world renowned Canadian employer.
  • Interview preparation from our Director of Recruitment who has decades of experience in ski resort recruitment including 19 years at Whistler Blackcomb, to ensure you nail your interview.
  • Visa Specialists to guide and guarantee your visa application & approval.
  • We answer all your questions, big and small, from your first enquiry to your first day of work. All of our TWHC staff have previously lived and worked in Canadian ski resorts.
  • E-Orientation pre-departure and in-country support from a TWHC specialist.
  • Access To Resort Specific Closed Facebook Groups.
  • Discounted rates on travel insurance and hostel accommodation.

Visa Fee:
346.00 CAD (including the biometrics fee).

Flights:
You can choose to book either one way or return.

Travel Insurance:
It is a condition of your working visa for Canada that you must have travel insurance for your entire stay in Canada. We get really great discounts that we pass on to applications once they have a job contract and are ready to book. This can range from $1,100 up to $2,800 AUD/NZD for a 6-24 month policy (Medical only or Comprehensive options available). We also have UK and EU insurance products we can recommend for our European participants

Hostel Stay on Arrival:
As a TWHC member, you will receive a 10% discount on your stay at one of our partnered hostels. It is up to you how long you want to stay. We suggest 3-5 days, however you will need to allow one full week day minimum to complete your SIN number and bank account setups before heading to your employer.

Transport to your Ski Resort/Hotel:
Transport from Vancouver/Calgary to your resort. This cost differs depending on your location, as resorts/hotels can range from 2-14 hours from the closest airport. It's best to allow approx. $60-$300 CAD for your transport to your resort which we will assist you to book.

Savings:
It is also a condition of the working visa that you must have a minimum of $2,500 CAD savings (Or availability on credit card) upon entry to Canada. We suggest aiming to take a minimum $5,000 savings with you, however this comes down to you and how you want to spend your season. The more you take with you the more you will be able to do during your working holiday.

AUSTRALASIAN APPLICANTS:
Once you have passed our initial assessment and are keen to get things rolling (and have read and agreed to our Terms & Conditions) an invoice will be sent to you from TWHC to arrange your $499 deposit. The final amount is due within 30 days. Payment plans are available offering regular monthly payments as long as your booking is paid in full prior to employer interviews.

We are unable to offer any refunds for dropping out of the programme at any point as the recruitment process starts right away. You can however change your departure date and push back your travel at any time before the dates below:

May 15th - Winter Programme

Feb 15th - Summer Programme

The final amount is due within 30 days. Payment plans are available offering regular monthly payments as long as your booking is paid in full prior to employer interviews.

UK/EUROPEAN APPLICANTS:
Once you have passed our initial assessment and are keen to get things rolling (and have read and agreed to our Terms & Conditions) an invoice will be sent to you from TWHC to arrange your £50 deposit. Once your deposit payment is received you will get the first stage of your visa instructions and link to start your application.

Your remaining balance for your program will become due as soon as you are invited to apply for your IEC Working Holiday visa and must be paid within 7 days of this - as soon as your remaining balance is paid you will get the next stages of your visa instructions.

Payment plans are available offering regular fortnightly or monthly payments as long as your booking is paid in full prior to employer interviews.

We are unable to offer any refunds for dropping out of the programme at any point as the recruitment process starts right away. You can however change your departure date and push back your travel at any time before the dates below:

May 15th - Winter Programme

Feb 15th - Summer Programme

Keep in mind that this is a working holiday; the more savings you take, the more you will be able to do. Whilst you are only required to have a minimum $2,500 CAD savings for your visa, we highly suggest aiming to take at least $5,000 CAD savings.

This excludes any costs for our programme, visa, flights and insurance. You want to have these savings after paying for these items.

Wages in Canada can differ between employer and province. The hourly wages for all roles range from approx. $16-$20 per hour.

You are making enough to pay your rent and cover your expenses, however, you definitely need to have your savings for any of the extra things you want to do. The more you have saved, the more you can do!

Staff housing costs also differ depending on your employer, location and room type. All staff housing is shared bedrooms of approx. 2-6 people per room. They do not offer single bedrooms for staff.

Please check the Canadian employers page for specific details on housing for that location. Costs also range from approx. $150 - $250 per week. Resorts cannot guarantee room types and allocated the housing themselves.

About The Canada Work Visa

To be eligible for the Working Holiday category, you must:

  • Be an Australian/NZ citizen.
  • Have a valid Aus/NZ passport for the duration of your stay in Canada prior to starting your application. Your work permit in Canada cannot be longer than the validity of your passport.
  • Be between 19 and 35 (inclusive) at the time of application.
  • Have the equivalent of $2,500 CAD savings and show proof on entry into Canada.
  • Have travel insurance for the duration of your stay. You need to show evidence of this insurance when you enter Canada. If you have a shorter policy you will be issued a shorter visa.
  • Not be accompanied by dependents.
  • It is required to submit your Biometrics information at a Canada Visa Application Center in person.
  • Cannot have any criminal records or DUIs. (Minor offences may be accepted, speak to our team about your situation if need be).

12-18 Weeks. This can fluctuate depending on the time of year you're applying. The more time you give yourself for the visa, the better. Once it's approved, you have 12 months to enter the Country. When you enter, Canada is when the visa time will start.

Information for Australian/NZ applicants:

  • Visa offices close every year between October and January
  • Currently, Australians and New Zealanders can only have one two-year working visa.

As a British citizen, you may participate in IEC twice:

  • a first participation of 24 months under any category
  • a second participation of 12 months under any category

So you can get a 24 month working holiday visa and then apply for a 12 month working holiday visa at the end of that if you want to extend your stay after your first working holiday (provided you still meet the criteria for the working holiday visa category!).

To be eligible for the Working Holiday category, you must:

  • be a British citizen from
    • the United Kingdom or
    • the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey
  • have a valid United Kingdom passport with British citizenship or a valid Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey) passport for the duration of your stay in Canada
    • Your work permit in Canada can’t be valid longer than your passport.
  • be between the ages of 19 and 35 (inclusive)
  • have a minimum of CAN$2,500 to help cover your expenses in Canada.
  • Have travel insurance for the duration of your stay. You need to show evidence of this insurance when you enter Canada. If you have a shorter policy you will be issued a shorter visa.
  • before departure, have a round-trip ticket or demonstrate that you’ll have the financial resources to purchase a departure ticket at the end of your authorized stay in Canada.
  • not be accompanied by dependants.

To be eligible for the Working Holiday category, you must

  • be a citizen of
    • Andorra/Austria/Belgium/Croatia/Czech Republic/Denmark/Estonia/Finland/France/Germany/Greece/Iceland/Ireland/Italy/Latvia/Lithuania/Luxembourg/Netherlands/Norway/Poland/Portugal/San Marino/Slovakia/Spain/Sweden
  • have a valid passport from your country of citizenship
    • Your work permit in Canada can’t be valid longer than your passport.
  • be between the ages of 19 and 30 (inclusive) for Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Icelenad, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Sweden OR
  • be between the ages of 19 and 35 (inclusive) for Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain.
  • have a minimum of CAN$2,500 to help cover your expenses in Canada.
  • have travel insurance for the full duration of your stay. You need to show evidence of this insurance when you enter Canada. If you have a shorter policy you will be issued a shorter visa.
  • before departure, you must have a round-trip ticket or demonstrate that you’ll have the financial resources to purchase a departure ticket at the end of your authorized stay in Canada.
  • not be accompanied by dependants.

Note: If you are applying as a citizen of Belgium,Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Spain, or Sweden you must also prove your residential status in your country of citizenship when you apply. This means you must give either a residential or mailing address for your country of citizenship in your application.

As a citizen of France, Ireland, Portugal, you can participate in the IEC Working Holiday Visa category once, for up to 24 months.

As a citizen of Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Spain, or Sweden, you can participate in the IEC Working Holiday Visa category once, for up to 24 months.

As a citizen of Italy, you can participate in the IEC Working Holiday Visa category twice - so you’re eligible to apply for 2 x participations, for up to 12 months each time.

AUS/NZ applicants

Immediately! As soon as you secure your spot on our programme you are sent the visa guide with instructions on how to start the visa process.

It’s very important you don’t delay and begin straight away. Once your visa is approved, you have 12 months to enter Canada. Once you enter Canada the 2 years of your visa will start. You will not lose any time off your Visa by starting early and Canadian employers prefer to see your visa is approved, or at the very least underway when you have an employer interview.

UK/EU applicants

Immediately! As soon as you secure your spot on our programme you are sent the visa guide with instructions on how to start the visa process.

There are a limited number of visas in the IEC Working Holiday quotas for UK and EU citizens. Each country has its own visa quota and competition is fierce - especially in Austria, Belgium, France, Greece, Latvia, Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Visas are allocated in rounds, via a random lottery type of system - so the sooner you start the application process the more rounds you will be a part of and the better chance you will have of getting your working holiday visa.

Visa requirements for EU applicants vary, depending on where you are from - so our team will explain the specific IEC visa requirements for your country during your consultation call.

If chances of you getting a visa are low, you will start the first stage of the IEC visa process before joining our program - we want to ensure you will be invited to apply for the visa before you join the program.

You must submit your biometrics within 30 days of completing your Visa application online. This must be done at a VAC for your visa to be processed.

You can submit this overseas if you need to and you can view the locations HERE.

UK/EU Applicants:

You must submit your biometrics information at your closest Visa Application Centre (VAC) within 30 days of completing your Visa application online as part of your Visa application process.

Once you submit and pay for your Visa application you will get a biometric instruction letter so you can move onto this step and book your biometrics.

This step is mandatory - and you must do this before your deadline in order for your visa to be processed.

Not all European countries have Canadian Visa Application Centres - you may need to travel to another European city to give your biometrics information.

UK - The only visa application centre in the UK is in London

EU - At present, the visa appliation centres inEurope include:

  • Helsiki, Finland
  • Lyon & Paris, France
  • Berlin & Dusseldorf, Germany
  • Athens, Greece
  • Reykjavik, Iceland
  • Dublin, Ireland
  • Rome, Italy
  • Warsae, Poland
  • Madrid, Spain
  • Stockholm, Sweden
  • The Hague, The Netherlands
  • London, United Kingdom

Other locations - For a full list of other locations click here.

With any kind of criminal record, it's a bit of a grey area. There is no 100% yes or no answer. The only way to know for sure is to submit your application and see the outcome.

Sadly, if you are over .08 it's unlikely your visa will be approved. The ones who ultimately make the decision are the visa office but from experience, anyone who has a DUI over .08 within the last 5 years has not been approved regardless of if it was a conviction or not.

As you have to upload the traffic history report they will see the DUI. Usually what we get anyone in your situation to do is apply for the visa first. This way if you are approved, we can continue with the rest of the programme, and you know you are good to go.

If you are declined, then you know you may need to wait another couple of years.

General Questions

1. Pre-Application Questionnaire
First of all, we want to get to know you and what type of working holiday experience is going to be best for you! We will then ensure you meet the basic requirements of the Canadian Working Holiday Visa & that you are a good fit for our Canadian ski resort and hotel partners. Basically, we want to make sure it's a solid fit for you and for the resorts/hotels. We don't make the final employment decision...the resorts/hotels do...we just make sure we prepare you as best as we can so employers have no other choice but to hire you!! We're not backward in coming forward...so if this program isn't right for you...we'll let you know, so we don't waste your time, the resort/hotel's time, our time, and most importantly...your money!!! Paying for the programme doesn’t guarantee you a job, it guarantees you the interview and we are here to give you the best chance and tools to secure employment.

2. Programme Invoice + Terms & Conditions
Once the questionnaire is submitted one of our TWHC Canada staff will be in touch to answer any further questions and let you know how to proceed with starting an application and kick-starting the process. This is where you will also have another chance to carefully read and review our Terms & Conditions, before making payment.

3. Deposit Payment
Once you are keen to get things rolling and we are happy you fit the requirements an invoice will be sent to you from TWHC to arrange the payment of $499 deposit (Aus/ NZ) or £50 for UK/EU. The final amount can then be paid off before your resort interview.

4. TWHC Online App Registration
Once your deposit payment has been received we will then send the registration link to create your login to our TWHC online App. This online portal is where you are going to complete and receive everything you need throughout your entire application with THWC from the moment you pay, right up until you depart for Canada. This will clearly outline your progress and what steps you need to complete next. The first step includes the Terms & Conditions which are there for you to READ not just tick off...so make sure you read everything prior to jumping in with two feet!!! This first step is also where you will select your resort/hotel location and job preferences.

5. Pre-Screen Interview
Within the TWHC online App, you will have the opportunity to submit your pre-screening interview. This is like a practice run for you and is held online. You will be given some practice interview questions to prepare you for what will come with your resort interview. These are held online to be completed in your own time and are designed to simulate a real interview where you will not know what questions they are going to ask. Our Recruitment Director has spent more than 17 years in a Canadian ski resort, she's been there and done that...the information she's imparting is super helpful!!!

6. Interview Placement
Your location preference will be approved by our Recruitment Manager in your online application which confirms who you are going to be having your interview with. Applicants will be advised by the recruitment manager if they are a fit or unfit for specific resorts or hotels to ensure expectations are managed.

7. Resort Specific Application
Once your location is approved, you will get access to the next step in your online TWHC application to submit your resort-specific application form. This form, once completed, will eventually be sent to the resort/hotel for their consideration prior to your face-to-face interview. The resort-specific application form allows the applicant to upload their personal information and make statements on why they should be hired. This form requires applicants to upload their resume, letters of reference, and a passport sized smiling photo, plus other written information about themselves and their experiences.

8. Full Payment
A face to face or Your final payment is due 30 days after your deposit is made. TWHC does offer payment plans, as long as you are paid in full prior to your employer interview and meet the minimum payment requirements. Please see info on Payment Plans here.

9. Resort/Hotel Interview
A face-to-face or virtual interview with a Canadian ski resort or hotel representative will then be set up in a one-on-one scenario. This date is usually set up months in advance allowing applicants to research and practice their interviewing skills. Once applicants have had their interviews with the Canadian resort or hotel reps, applicants will not be advised if they have been successful until all applicants for that particular resort or hotel have been interviewed and considered. This will be a minimum of 4 weeks after the final interviews have wrapped up.

10. Job Contract
Job offers are usually confirmed a minimum of 4 weeks after final interviews wrap up. The moment we have the confirmation you will be emailed and have access to your confirmation of job and start date within your TWHC online application. You will then also receive confirmation from your resort in writing. Then we begin the fun part of assisting you in booking your travel and insurance to Canada.

11. Unsuccessful Candidates
If you are not successful in obtaining a job offer, TWHC will be in touch with further options. These options will depend on seasonal/employer availability and your interview feedback. No refunds will be considered until ALL avenues of employment are exhausted. At this point, if there are no remaining locations for potential employment, a program refund will be issued. Our role is to locate employment in Canada for applicants and we do not stop until we have tracked all opportunities down!!!

The opening date for our Winter programme is the 1st of November every year for the following season. We will then recruit until approximately June, and employer interviews are usually held between June-August.

Please keep in mind that all locations are filled on a first-in first-served basis. If you apply in November, you will have all locations available to choose from. If you wait until April or May you may only have 1 or 2 options left (if any!).

There is no official closing date. We only take the number of applicants for jobs that we have and will stop taking applications once all interview spots are filled. This could be in April or it could be late May depending on demand.

To avoid disappointment please start early to secure your preferred location.

You can. However, this can be very time-consuming and most importantly costly. Not everyone has the luxury to support themselves overseas for weeks or months whilst they search for a job.

Canadian employers use companies like TWHC to source international staff for seasonal work.

You might be able to score yourself a job at one of the local grocery stores, bakeries, or restaurants, but without guaranteed hours, staff housing, or a ski pass incentive, it can be extremely hard and incredibly expensive to support yourself.

Here are some factors to consider if you have decided to do it yourself:

  • Depending on your Nationality you will need to secure your work visa fast as their quotas are reached earlier each year.
  • Should you manage to secure employment with a local grocery or retail outlet on the mountain, your accommodation will be costly (if any is available!) for you to rent on minimum wage.
  • You will need to fork out as much as $1800 for a season ski lift pass. Local shops very rarely can offer you an annual pass for free.
  • You would likely need to budget for 3-6 weeks in a hostel while your jobs hunt.
  • Typically, more desirable jobs are allocated to internationals in advance. Arriving late means you need to be prepared to take whatever jobs are left on offer (if any!)
  • This can be extremely hard to navigate solo, let alone as a first-time traveller or a in a group

TWHC has created a detailed e-orientation video that covers every facet of your pre-departure and arrival into Canada. This video will not only cover what to pack, how to prepare for customs, and obtain your working holiday Visa, but also how to acquire your Social Insurance Number (SIN), Bank Account, and Free SIM Card.

A TWHC staff member is also available at Meet & Greets or at midday Mon-Fri during arrival months for in-person assistance at our partner hostels. Details are provided with job offers.

Yes, you can. We understand moving to the other side of the world can be a little daunting, and we strive to ensure we give you and your friends/partners the best possible opportunity to work together. That is why, in your application, you can note who you will be travelling with. Ultimately the decision is the interviewers’, and we cannot guarantee you will both/all receive a job offer. We can guarantee that you and your friends will interview with the same employer. As we mentioned earlier, be flexible with your job options in this scenario for the best success.

Be aware the larger the group of travellers, the greater the chance of someone not being offered a role. This also applies to couples as one is usually stronger than the other. There is always ‘one person’ in the group who isn’t as sharp or as focused. The resort or hotel interviewers have no qualms deciding who they offer roles to, and who they don’t. This is a brutal reality… Being part of a group or couple does guarantee you all get a job offer and is the risk you take applying together. This info is to help prepare you.

TWHC absolutely recommends waiting until you have your job offer and start date before you book any flights or insurance. All these details will come with your job offer, after your employer interview. Your start date will all depend on the job role you are offered.

Whilst it may be cheaper to book flights earlier, it will be far more costly to change a flight or book temporary accommodation as you cannot move into staff housing until you start work.

You can enter Canada on a one-way ticket as long as you have the equivalent funds of a return ticket in your account.

We suggest showing you have at least $3,500 CAD on entry instead of $2,500 CAD.

This all depends on the employer/resort and the job role that you are offered. Eg Employers in Alberta generally have earlier start dates in October to coincide with the earlier snowfall. British Columbia Resorts like Whistler Blackcomb and SilverStar generally have start dates from early to mid November. Your start date will also depend on the job role you are offered. Certain job roles start earlier than others and employers will generally train all people in the one department together. You will know your exact start date after interviews once you receive a job offer. That is when you can then plan your departure and arrival details.

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