GOOD TO KNOW
FREQUENTLLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Am I eligible to work a ski season in Canada?
Eligibility to work a ski season in Canada depends primarily on your nationality, age, and whether your country participates in Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday program. You can view the full list of eligible IEC countries here.
When you apply, our team will assess your eligibility and evaluate your likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for your intended season. If we don’t believe the program is the right fit for you or that you have a realistic chance of obtaining a work permit, we’ll let you know before you pay any program fees.
When should I start planning my ski season in Canada?
If you’re planning to work a ski season in Canada, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of receiving your International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday visa and securing your preferred job and resort location.
Canadian ski resorts begin recruiting several months before each season starts, so planning gives you access to the widest range of job opportunities. Typical application deadlines are:
- Summer Season: Applications are typically accepted until February.
- Winter Season: Applications are typically accepted until June.
It pays off to be organized, the sooner you are ready for interviews, the more ski resort job positions you could be a candidate for. If you are a last-minute planner, then start to consider planning for the next upcoming Season. Too late for Winter? check our Summer Resort Working Holiday program. You could start out with a summer job and opt to stay for the next winter season!
Do I need a Working Holiday visa before I apply?
While it is mandatory to have a valid Working Holiday to work in Canada, you do not need to have it before applying to our program.
In fact, most participants apply before receiving their International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday work permit. However, we can only support applicants from countries where there is a realistic chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the season they want to travel.
Once you’ve been accepted into the program, we’ll guide you through the IEC Working Holiday application process, explain each step, and help you understand which documents you’ll need to prepare while we begin your job search
What is the staff housing like at ski resorts in Canada?
Each resort and hotel has different staff housing, from dormitory buildings to shared units with several bedrooms. Shared units usually include a kitchen, a bathroom and a common area.
The common denominator is that you will be able to share accommodation with your colleagues from work! Most employers ask you to answer a questionnaire to match you with housemates that have similar hobbies and interests! Staff housing is the best way to get to know people, as you will be living with co-workers from other departments of the resort.
How much money should I bring to Canada?
Before arriving in Canada, you should budget for:
- Flights
- Travel insurance – Mandatory
- Your first month’s accommodation
- Food and personal expenses until your first paycheck
We also recommend bringing an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. During your consultation, we’ll help you estimate your arrival budget based on your destination and travel plans.
Can I choose where I work?
We’ll always ask about your preferences, including the type of resort, location, and role you’re looking for. While we can’t guarantee placement at a specific resort, we’ll work to match you with an opportunity that fits your goals and experience. Applying early gives you the widest range of options.
Can I stay in Canada after the ski season ends?
Yes. Many participants stay in Canada after the winter season ends.
If your employer has summer opportunities available, you may be able to continue working with them. Since the Working Holiday permit is an open work permit, you’re also free to work for another employer anywhere in Canada while your permit remains valid.
Can couples or friends work at the same ski resort?
Yes. Many participants apply with a partner or friend. Although we can’t guarantee placements together, we’ll always do our best to find opportunities at the same resort whenever possible. Be sure to let us know early in the application process if you’d like to travel together.
What happens if I don’t receive an IEC invitation to apply (ITA)?
Receiving an invitation through Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) program is never guaranteed.
Before you register, we’ll assess your eligibility and discuss your chances based on your nationality and the current season. If you don’t receive an invitation, our team will explain your options, including whether applying again in a future season makes sense.
Can I work a ski season in Canada without experience?
Yes. Many Canadian ski resort jobs require little or no previous experience. Employers often value enthusiasm, customer service skills, reliability, and a willingness to learn just as much as previous work experience.
However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. While many entry-level positions are suitable for first-time workers, some roles require previous hospitality, customer service, culinary, or technical experience. The more experience you have, the wider the range of opportunities available to you.
We recruit for positions across hospitality, food and beverage, housekeeping, guest services, rentals, retail, lift operations, and many other departments. Our team will assess your background and match you with employers and roles that best suit your skills and experience.
How far are the ski resorts from major Canadian cities?
Most Canadian ski resorts are in spectacular mountain destinations surrounded by nature while still offering convenient access to nearby cities. For example:
- Whistler is approximately two hours from Vancouver.
- Banff is around 90 minutes from Calgary.
- Sun Peaks is about 45 minutes from Kamloops.
Working at a Canadian ski resort gives you the opportunity to enjoy mountain living while still being within easy reach of urban centers.
How do I get to the resort when I arrive in Canada?
Our team will help you every step of the way, you won’t be on your own!
Before you depart, we’ll provide detailed pre-arrival information, including the best airport to fly into, transportation options to your resort, and everything you need to know before arriving in Canada.
Once you arrive, we’ll guide you through the important first steps of settling in, such as applying for your Social Insurance Number (SIN), opening a Canadian bank account, getting a Canadian phone number, and preparing for your first day at work.
Depending on your employer, airport transfers or staff transportation to your resort may also be available. If not, we’ll provide clear instructions on how to reach your destination safely and confidently.
Not quite right?
Explore other ways to get to Canada
Summer Working Holiday
Land a summer resort job among turquoise lakes, mountains and surf beaches. Summer 2027 registrations open late July 2026.
Francophone Trainee Program
Join our Francophone Trainee Program to work in Canada. English and French culinary and hospitality grads gain experience with top hotels and restaurants while earning competitive wages.