Eva & Thomas(28)

Thomas and I lived together in The Hague. He worked as a graphic designer, I as an HR advisor. We were both 27, no children, no mortgage — the perfect moment for an adventure. Canada had always attracted us: the nature, the space, the relaxed mentality. Through the International Experience Canada program (IEC), as Dutch citizens we could get an open work permit for up to two years.

The IEC process works through a lottery system. You create a profile with IRCC and are placed in a pool. If you're lucky, you receive an invitation. We both registered for the Working Holiday category and within three months both received an invitation. Applying for the work permit itself was relatively simple: biometrics, medical exam, police clearance and proof of financial means (minimum CAD 2,500 per person).

We chose Ottawa because it's affordable, bilingual and close to both Toronto and Montreal. The city has a bad reputation as "boring", but that's not true. The ByWard Market is vibrant, the Rideau Canal is beautiful (and in winter the longest skating rink in the world) and the tech sector is growing fast. Shopify has its headquarters here, and there are dozens of smaller tech companies.

Finding work was the most exciting part. With an open work permit I could work for any employer without them needing an LMIA — a huge advantage. Thomas found a job at a design agency within two weeks via Indeed. I had a harder time: HR positions often require knowledge of Canadian employment law. I started as a recruiter at a staffing agency and worked my way up. After eight months my employer offered to sponsor my LMIA for a regular work permit.

The turning point came after one year. We loved our life in Ottawa and wanted to stay. My employer started the LMIA process, which took three months and cost CAD 1,000 (paid by the employer). With a positive LMIA and an employer-specific work permit, we could then start a PR application through the Canadian Experience Class — an Express Entry category for people already working in Canada.

Now, two years after our arrival, we're waiting for our PR approval. Thomas still works at his design agency, I've grown into an HR manager role. We have an apartment in Centretown, speak a bit of French and feel at home. Our advice to young couples: use the IEC as a springboard. It's the easiest way to experience Canada — and if you like it, there are plenty of pathways to permanent residence.