Work in Canada
How the 2025 International Experience Canada (IEC) Season Brings New Opportunities
The 2025 International Experience Canada (IEC) season is in full swing, offering fresh opportunities for young adults worldwide. With new quotas, revised fees, and procedural updates, this season presents a mix of challenges and possibilities for aspiring IEC participants. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of the program.
What Is International Experience Canada (IEC)?
IEC allows young adults from over 30 countries to gain valuable work experience in Canada. Participants can apply under three categories:
- Working Holiday: Perfect for those who wish to travel while working.
- Young Professionals: For career-oriented individuals seeking specific work experience.
- International Co-op: Ideal for students needing internships to fulfill academic requirements.
Key Changes for the 2025 IEC Season
The 2025 IEC season has brought a few significant updates:
1. Increased Fees: Application fees have risen to CAD 179.75, up from CAD 172 in 2024.
2. Quota Adjustments:
- France: Decrease in Working Holiday and Young Professionals slots by 2,000 but an increase in International Co-op spots by 3,000.
- South Korea: Redistribution of 1,625 spots between Working Holiday and other streams.
- Taiwan: Largest reduction, with 2,240 fewer Working Holiday slots.
- Australia: Unlimited quotas may face restrictions, as details are still pending.
3. Invitation Rounds Begin January 13: The first rounds are already underway for select countries.
Flagpoling Restrictions and Its Impact
Starting December 23, 2024, flagpoling—a common method to activate work permits at land borders—is no longer permitted. IEC applicants must now carefully plan their travel to activate their permits. If you receive a Port of Entry (POE) introduction letter while already in Canada, you must exit and re-enter the country to validate your work permit.
How to Secure Your Spot in the IEC Pools
To enhance your chances of receiving an invitation:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you qualify for one of the IEC categories by taking a free online assessment.
- Submit Early: Enter the pools as soon as possible to be included in multiple rounds.
- Prepare for Application: If invited, you’ll need to complete your work permit application within 20 days.
Navigating Quotas and Invitations
Here’s the detailed table of available quotas, spots, and eligible candidates for the 2025 IEC season:
| Country | Category | Quota | Spots Available | Eligible Candidates |
| Andorra | Working Holiday | 25 | 25 | 0 |
| Austria | Working Holiday | 100 | 100 | 49 |
| Belgium | Working Holiday | 750 | 750 | 219 |
| Croatia | Working Holiday | 300 | 300 | 98 |
| Czech Republic | Working Holiday | 1,000 | 1,000 | 312 |
| Denmark | Working Holiday | 350 | 350 | 116 |
| Estonia | Working Holiday | 150 | 150 | 34 |
| France | Working Holiday | 7,100 | 7,100 | 15,482 |
| France | Young Professionals | 2,400 | 2,400 | 590 |
| France | International Co-op | 4,200 | 4,200 | 1,004 |
| Germany | Working Holiday | Unlimited | Unlimited | 469 |
| Greece | Working Holiday | 180 | 180 | 44 |
| Hong Kong | Working Holiday | 200 | 200 | 96 |
| Ireland | Working Holiday | 10,700 | 10,700 | 5,843 |
| Italy | Working Holiday | 1,000 | 1,000 | 251 |
| Japan | Working Holiday | 6,500 | 6,500 | 3,128 |
| South Korea | Working Holiday | 3,400 | 1,625 | 1,475 |
| Latvia | Working Holiday | 50 | 50 | 4 |
| Lithuania | Working Holiday | 100 | 100 | 13 |
| Luxembourg | Working Holiday | 80 | 80 | 9 |
| Netherlands | Working Holiday | 200 | 200 | 44 |
| New Zealand | Working Holiday | 2,500 | 2,500 | 1,222 |
| Norway | Working Holiday | 130 | 130 | 41 |
| Poland | Working Holiday | 750 | 750 | 74 |
| Portugal | Working Holiday | 2,000 | 2,000 | 321 |
| Slovakia | Working Holiday | 315 | 315 | 56 |
| Slovenia | Working Holiday | 80 | 80 | 11 |
| Spain | Working Holiday | 1,000 | 1,000 | 189 |
| Sweden | Working Holiday | 580 | 580 | 127 |
| Switzerland | Working Holiday | 250 | 250 | 40 |
| Taiwan | Working Holiday | 940 | 700 | 308 |
| United Kingdom | Working Holiday | 6,000 | 6,000 | 2,540 |
Essential Tips for 2025 IEC Applicants
- Health Insurance: Purchase insurance for the entire duration of your stay to avoid issues with work permit validation.
- Job Search: Start applying for jobs before arrival. Many Canadian employers are eager to hire IEC participants.
- Border Check: Confirm the hours and rules at your intended crossing point to avoid complications.
The 2025 IEC season is an exciting opportunity for international youth, but preparation is key. With updated fees, quotas, and flagpoling restrictions, aspiring participants must act early and stay informed. For the latest updates and advice, keep visiting trusted sources and plan proactively to secure your chance to experience Canada.
