Work and travel in San Marino: International Experience Canada

Fun facts about San Marino

  • San Marino is the world’s fifth smallest country.
  • People of San Marino are known as Sammarinese.
  • San Marino was founded on September 3, 301 AD by a stonemason named Marinus.

What San Marino offers

The Republic of San Marino is 61 square kilometers and roughly square-shaped with Mount Titano at its centre. This mountainous microstate located in north-central Italy, borders two Italian regions: Emilia-Romagna and Marche. In 2008, United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) listed the old towns of San Marino and Borgo Maggiore, along with Mount Titano, as World Heritage Sites. Mount Titano offers a unique view of the Adriatic Sea and the Apennines Mountains, while the Natural Park of Montecchio is perfect for a day in the open air and a picnic with friends.

San Marino's medieval old town is crisscrossed with narrow streets lined with beautiful buildings and monuments including the Three Towers, the Public Palace, the Basilica of Saint Mariunus and the State Museum.

Hike or horseback ride through San Marino’s parks and trails. Climbing enthusiasts can enjoy free climbing. Cycling lovers will love the San Marino Cycling Experience with 15 bike trails ranging from road cycling to mountain biking. Taste a rich variety of foods and wines or enjoy a unique range of local events including concerts, sporting events, cultural events and historic re-enactments.

Today, manufacturing, trade and tourism represent the main economic sectors in San Marino. Its small but diverse economy offers a wide range of job opportunities including handicraft, tourism, food service and agriculture.

Who can apply?

To work in San Marino through the Working Holiday program, you must:

  • be a Canadian citizen
  • be 18-35 years old (inclusive)
  • have a valid Working Holiday visa from another country in the Schengen area, and
  • have a valid Canadian passport

Other requirements may apply.

What type of work visa do I need?

Do I need a formal job or internship offer?

No, you do not need a formal job offer (pre-arranged contract of employment) or a formal internship offer.

How long can I stay and work?

You can stay and work in San Marino for up to 12 months, however you can only work for an employer for a maximum of 6 months.

You can participate in San Marino’s Working Holiday program two times.

How do I apply?

  1. Get a Working Holiday Visa from another country in the Schengen area
  2. Once you have a Working Holiday Visa, apply for a letter of introduction at the San Marino Department of Foreign Affairs
  3. If your application is approved, get a stay permit in San Marino by showing your letter of introduction at the Foreigners’ Office of the Gendarmerie
  4. Register at the Labour Office in San Marino to get your work permit

Foreigners’ Office of the Gendarmerie

Tavolucci Centre, Via 28 Luglio, 212
Borgo Maggiore, San Marino

Labour Office

Via 28 Luglio, 218
Borgo Maggiore, San Marino

Plan your trip

The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our travel checklist to find out what you should know or do before travelling to and working in a foreign country.

Need help planning? One of IEC’s recognized organizations (ROs) might be able to help you find a job, transportation, and provide travel advice.

Most ROs charge a fee for their services.

More resources

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