Table of Contents
Canada IEC 2025—the International Experience Canada program—offers eligible individuals from participating countries the chance to work and travel in Canada under three main categories: Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op (Internship). At Sohi Law Group, we follow this program closely because it is a popular pathway for those seeking temporary Canadian work experience while exploring the country.
The IEC operates through a competitive pool system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), with specific rules, quotas, and eligibility criteria for each participating country.
Overview of the IEC Program
The IEC program is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows citizens of partner countries—typically aged 18 to 35, depending on bilateral agreements—to apply for temporary work permits in Canada.
The program’s three categories serve different purposes:
- Working Holiday – For those seeking open work permits, allowing them to work for multiple employers and travel within Canada.
- Young Professionals – For candidates with a job offer in Canada related to their career path, resulting in an employer-specific work permit.
- International Co-op (Internship) – For students needing work placements in Canada as part of their academic curriculum.
Each country negotiates its own participation terms with Canada, which affects age limits, length of stay, and the number of spots available each season.
2025 Season Activity and Invitation Numbers
The 2025 IEC season began during the week of January 13, 2025, and has seen strong participation from the outset. As of early February 2025, IRCC reported issuing 5,992 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for work permits under the program. At that point, over 24,375 candidates were already in the various IEC pools waiting for selection.
Country-specific results from early February 2025 include:
- France – 2,490 ITAs issued
- United Kingdom – 787 ITAs issued
- Korea – 752 ITAs issued
- Taiwan – 252 ITAs issued
- Japan – 257 ITAs issued
By the start of May 2025, total ITAs issued across all categories and countries had reached 63,353, demonstrating steady draw activity and high global interest in the program.
How the Invitation Process Works
The IEC operates on a pool-based selection system. Eligible applicants create an online profile with IRCC and choose the category for which they wish to apply. These profiles remain in the pool until:
- The applicant receives an ITA,
- The program season ends, or
- The applicant withdraws.
IRCC conducts regular invitation rounds. Within each round, candidates are selected randomly from country-specific and category-specific pools until quotas are filled. The process is competitive because the number of candidates often exceeds available spots.
Key process points:
- Advance Notice – IRCC provides at least five days’ public notice before the last invitation round of the season for each pool.
- Additional ITAs – If candidates decline or fail to accept invitations, IRCC may issue extra ITAs to ensure quotas are met.
- Transparency – Weekly pool updates are posted by IRCC, typically on Fridays, showing the number of candidates, invitations issued, and the likelihood of selection.
Preparing for an ITA
While no one can guarantee an invitation, candidates can improve their readiness:
- Keep your profile accurate – Any changes in employment, education, or passport details should be updated promptly.
- Monitor IRCC updates – Being aware of draw patterns can help you anticipate your chances.
- Prepare documents in advance – Common requirements include:
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself in Canada
- Valid health insurance covering your entire intended stay
- Police certificates from relevant jurisdictions
- Job offer letters (for Young Professionals category)
- Be ready to apply quickly – Once you receive an ITA, you have a limited time to submit your work permit application and pay the required fees.
Country Quotas and Participation Differences
The IEC program is not the same for every participating country. Each bilateral agreement sets:
- Age limits – Often 18–35, but some countries have 18–30 limits.
- Maximum duration of stay – Usually 12 to 24 months.
- Number of spots per year – Ranging from hundreds to thousands depending on the agreement.
- Renewal possibilities – Some countries allow participants to reapply in subsequent years; others do not.
This means candidates from certain countries may have higher or lower odds of receiving an ITA, and timing of application can be critical.
How Sohi Law Group Can Help
While IRCC controls the IEC draw process, Sohi Law Group can assist you at every stage of your application:
- Assessing eligibility under your country’s IEC agreement
- Helping you understand which category best fits your goals
- Reviewing your application for completeness and accuracy
- Advising on supporting documentation to meet IRCC’s requirements
We emphasize that we do not have any role in selecting candidates for ITAs—this is solely the responsibility of IRCC. However, we can help you be fully prepared so that when an invitation arrives, you can submit a strong and timely application.
About Sohi Law Group
Sohi Law Group is a British Columbia law firm providing legal services in Canadian immigration and related matters. Our lawyers are members in good standing of the Law Society of British Columbia.
Jurisdictional Statement
We are authorized to provide legal advice on Canadian immigration law. Services are provided in accordance with the Legal Profession Act, Law Society Rules, and the Code of Professional Conduct for British Columbia.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create a solicitor–client relationship with Sohi Law Group. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) manages the International Experience Canada program and determines the issuance of Invitations to Apply (ITAs). For advice specific to your circumstances, please contact us directly.
Conclusion
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program continues to provide life-changing opportunities for young individuals worldwide. With thousands of invitations already issued in the 2025 season, the program remains a popular choice for those seeking Canadian work experience. As the season progresses, candidates are encouraged to stay informed about weekly updates, ensure their profiles are up-to-date, and remain proactive in their pursuit of a Canadian adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the IEC program?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young adults aged 18-35 from participating countries to live and work in Canada through categories like Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op.
How many ITAs have been issued in the 2025 season?
As of early February 2025, IRCC has issued 5,992 ITAs, with the total reaching 63,353 by May 2025. The program continues to issue invitations as the season progresses.
Which countries received the most ITAs?
France leads with 2,490 ITAs, followed by the United Kingdom (787), Korea (752), Taiwan (252), and Japan (257). Other countries like Australia, Ireland, and Spain also received allocations.
How can I increase my chances of receiving an ITA?
Ensure your profile is complete and up-to-date, stay informed about quota availability, and monitor IRCC’s weekly updates. These steps can improve your likelihood of receiving an invitation.
What documents do I need to apply for an IEC work permit?
Required documents include proof of funds, health insurance, a police certificate, and other supporting documents. Ensure all documents are ready before submitting your application.
How can I stay updated on the IEC 2025 season?
IRCC provides weekly updates, typically on Fridays, which include information on ITAs issued and remaining quota spots. Candidates are encouraged to check these updates regularly.
What happens if I decline or my ITA expires?
If an ITA is declined or expires, IRCC may issue additional invitations to fill the remaining spots. However, candidates should act promptly to secure their place in the program.
No comment