An internship in Canada is one of the most sought-after experiences for students at French engineering and business schools: a North American work environment, Quebec companies that hire French speakers, and a real boost to a résumé. Before leaving, you need to understand the permit that makes the internship possible and prepare your file in the right order. This guide covers the rules in force in 2026.
The International Co-op permit (International Experience Canada)
For a French student, the most common route is the International Co-op (Internship) stream of International Experience Canada (IEC), managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It lets you complete an internship in Canada that is part of your studies, with an employer-specific work permit.
Main requirements
- Be 18 to 35 years old when you apply.
- Be enrolled in a post-secondary institution, with the internship required to complete your program.
- Hold a position directly related to your field of study.
- Have a signed job offer or employment contract, plus an internship agreement signed by you, the company and your school.
- Show at least CAD $2,500 in funds on arrival.
- Have health insurance covering your entire stay.
- Hold a passport valid for the full length of the permit.
The permit can last up to 12 months. During that time, you work for the same employer at the same location.
The steps, in order
- Find a host company and have your school approve the internship.
- Create your IEC profile and enter the International Co-op pool.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). You then have 20 days to submit a complete work permit application.
- The employer submits the offer of employment in the IRCC Employer Portal, pays the CAD $230 compliance fee and gives you an offer of employment number starting with “A”.
- Pay the participation fee (CAD $184.75 in 2026), give your biometrics and wait for processing, which takes about eight weeks.
- When you arrive in Canada, have your permit activated at the port of entry.
Allow at least three to four months between the company’s agreement and your departure. Processing times vary: always check the latest information on the official IRCC website (canada.ca) before you start.
Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver?
Montreal and Quebec City naturally attract French-speaking students: many companies work in French and value graduates trained in France. Toronto and Vancouver offer very dynamic tech and finance ecosystems, where professional English is essential. The right choice depends on your field, your English level and the type of company you are targeting.
Pay and budget
The internship must comply with provincial labour standards, including minimum wage. Still plan a starting budget: flights, insurance, first rent and deposit, and the funds required on arrival. Housing is often the biggest expense, especially in Toronto and Vancouver.
Mistakes that delay an application
- An incomplete internship agreement: exact dates, the workplace address and a description of duties must be included.
- A position with no clear link to your studies.
- Insurance that does not cover the full length of the permit.
- An offer of employment submitted by the employer with errors: it cannot be changed once sent.
How Linkor helps
Linkor helps students land paid internships in Canada and the United States: matching with partner companies, application preparation and support with visa steps until departure. See our internship offers or read our FAQ.
Representing a school or university? See our page for schools and universities.
Information current as of October 2026, for guidance only. Immigration rules change: always refer to the official IRCC website.
