How do I fill out the work permit application?
Field-by-field tips for Step 5, from your address to government fees.
"Once you accept your ITA, you will have 20 days to complete your full application." Write down your start date and deadline, and aim to submit early. These are the questions that trip people up most.
Current vs. permanent address: Give your permanent or US mailing address. You don't need to be living in the US right now.
Work history: Be thorough and match your resume. The job category dropdowns are limited, so use your best judgment.
National Identity Document: US citizens answer "No."
Lawful permanent resident status: US citizens answer "No."
Health and Social Services question: Most applicants answer "No." "Having a condition or diagnosis, taking medication, or having a disability, is not the same as requiring Social Services support."
Family Information Form: Fill in your parents' information and don't sign it. See our separate article on this form for details.
Travel history: IRCC sometimes follows up asking for past trips. See our travel history article for how to prepare.
Uploading PDFs: Press Validate, then save and upload. Check that "Submitted to IRCC" appears next to each document name.
Government fees: You'll pay the IEC participation fee plus the work permit fee in the application portal at the end.
Want a second look? We offer a free 15-minute application review over a virtual screen-share with your InterExchange contact. Contact us to set one up.
For screenshots and more detail, see the full 2026 application guidelines.
Questions? Contact us at workabroad@interexchange.org or (800) 597-3675. We reply within 24 hours.