Canada’s First IEC 2025 Draw: Over 10,000 Invitations Issued for Work Permits
The Government of Canada has officially conducted the first International Experience Canada (IEC) 2025 draw, issuing over 10,000 invitations to eligible young individuals worldwide. This marks the beginning of the IEC 2025 season, opening doors for global youth to gain valuable work and travel experience in Canada.
What is IEC 2025?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program provides young people from over 35 participating countries the opportunity to live and work in Canada. The program consists of three main categories:
- Working Holiday: Provides an open work permit, allowing participants to work for multiple employers across Canada.
- Young Professionals: Grants an employer-specific work permit, requiring a job offer relevant to the applicant’s professional development.
- International Co-op (Internship): An employer-specific work permit for students needing work placements or internships as part of their studies.
The IEC 2025 season officially opened on December 16, 2024, allowing candidates to submit their profiles into the respective pools. The first invitation rounds began on January 13, 2025, with results published on January 17, 2025. The IEC program is highly competitive, and applicants are advised to ensure their profiles are complete and up-to-date to enhance their chances of receiving an invitation. Candidates should also be aware of any changes in eligibility criteria or quotas, as they may vary by country.
Additionally, individuals looking to apply should be prepared to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support their stay in Canada. Many provinces require proof of funds to ensure applicants can sustain themselves during their working holiday. This can be in the form of bank statements, letters of sponsorship, or other valid financial documents.
IEC 2025 First Draw Results
A total of 10,274 invitations were issued in the first round, divided into the three IEC categories:
- Working Holiday Visa: 8,260 invitations issued
- Young Professionals: 1,165 invitations issued
- International Co-op (Internship): 849 invitations issued
Country-Wise Invitations for Working Holiday Visa
Country | Invitations Issued | Available Spots | Candidates in Pool | 2025 Quota | Chances of Invitation Next Round |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Australia | 1,150 | Unlimited | 136 | Unlimited | Excellent |
France | 615 | 6,187 | 15,038 | 6,615 | Very Low |
Ireland | 700 | 3,335 | 292 | 3,800 | Excellent |
Italy | 518 | 1,406 | 117 | 1,750 | Excellent |
Korea | 1,514 | 8,990 | 4,451 | 10,000 | Fair |
Young Professionals Category Invitations
Country | Invitations Issued This Week | Available Spots | Candidates in the Pool | IEC 2025 Quota | Chances of Invitation Next Round |
Austria | 4 | 59 | 0 | 60 | Excellent |
France | 0 | 2,080 | 1,000 | 2,080 | Excellent |
Ireland | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — |
Italy | 0 | 200 | 0 | 200 | Excellent |
Korea | 0 | 1,500 | 0 | 1,500 | Excellent |
International Co-op (Internship) Invitations
Country | Invitations Issued This Week | Available Spots | Candidates in the Pool | IEC 2025 Quota | Chances of Invitation Next Round |
Austria | 0 | 20 | 0 | 20 | Excellent |
France | 0 | 3,950 | 0 | 3,950 | Excellent |
Italy | 0 | 50 | 0 | 50 | Excellent |
Korea | 0 | 500 | 0 | 500 | Excellent |
How to Apply for IEC 2025?
If you are eligible and want to apply for the IEC 2025 program, follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that your country has a youth mobility agreement with Canada and determine which categories are available to you.
- Create an IEC Profile: Submit your profile through IRCC’s online portal.
- Receive an Invitation: If selected, you will get an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Submit Work Permit Application: Once you receive an ITA, complete and submit your work permit application within the given time frame, including all necessary documents and fees.
- Receive Decision & Travel to Canada: If approved, you will receive your work permit details and can start planning your trip to Canada.
Applicants should also ensure that they meet all financial and health requirements before applying, as proof of funds and medical exams may be required for some categories. Moreover, candidates should regularly monitor updates on the official IRCC website for any changes in draw frequencies, quotas, or eligibility criteria.