Work in Canada
IRCC Invites Nearly 5,000 Candidates Under the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program in 2025
In another proactive move to strengthen international youth mobility, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has invited nearly 5,000 candidates under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program between September 6 and October 10, 2025. The IEC program allows young individuals from participating countries to gain valuable international work experience in Canada, promoting cultural exchange and professional development.
According to IRCC’s latest update, 4,965 invitations to apply (ITAs) were issued for open work permits under various IEC categories, reaffirming Canada’s position as a top destination for global youth talent.
Highlights of the Latest IEC Draws
Between September and October 2025, Canada distributed 4,965 invitations across multiple partner countries. The breakdown reveals how widespread global participation has become under the IEC framework.
| Country | Invitations Issued (ITAs) |
| Australia | 719 |
| France | 678 |
| Korea | 1,112 |
| Germany | 497 |
| Ireland | 432 |
| Italy | 392 |
| United Kingdom | 142 |
| New Zealand | 222 |
| Czech Republic | 111 |
| Portugal | 96 |
| Poland | 94 |
| Spain | 33 |
| Sweden | 49 |
| Remaining Countries (combined) | 388 |
As of October 10, 2025, there were 39,279 candidates registered in the IEC pools, eagerly awaiting invitations for their chance to live and work in Canada.
IEC Program Overview: A Gateway for Global Youth
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program provides a structured pathway for youth aged 18 to 35 (depending on nationality) to work and travel in Canada through three major streams:
- Working Holiday – Offers an open work permit, allowing participants to work for any employer across Canada.
- Young Professionals – For individuals with a job offer in their field, helping them gain professional experience related to their career goals.
- International Co-op (Internship) – Designed for students to gain hands-on experience in a Canadian company as part of their academic program.
Each stream fosters international cooperation and provides global exposure, making Canada a preferred destination for youth mobility.
Global Participation: Who’s Coming to Canada Under IEC 2025?
The 2025 IEC season has seen participation from over 30 countries, including Australia, France, Germany, South Korea, Ireland, and Italy all traditional leaders in Canada’s youth exchange agreements. The diversity of participants reflects Canada’s growing global partnerships, with newer entrants like Costa Rica, Croatia, and Lithuania also showing active participation. Since the start of 2025, Canada has already issued 99,343 ITAs through the IEC program, signaling one of the most active years yet.
Why the IEC Program Matters for Canada and Participants
The IEC program is more than a work permit; it’s a mutual opportunity for both Canada and young professionals from around the world.
For Participants
- Gain Canadian work experience in key sectors like tourism, hospitality, IT, and trade.
- Experience Canada’s multicultural environment while earning globally recognised work credentials.
- Strengthen future immigration eligibility through Canadian work experience often a stepping stone toward permanent residence via programs like Express Entry.
For Canada
- Addresses short-term labour shortages in key industries.
- Enhances cultural exchange and strengthens international partnerships.
- Promotes Canada’s reputation as a destination for youth innovation and global collaboration.
Future Outlook for the IEC Program in 2025–2026
With nearly 100,000 invitations already issued in 2025, Canada continues to lead global youth mobility efforts. The program aligns with the federal government’s broader vision of building a flexible and inclusive immigration system, enabling international workers to contribute to Canada’s economy while gaining global experience.
As global economies recover and travel normalises post-pandemic, IRCC is expected to maintain strong IEC activity through 2026, expanding bilateral youth mobility agreements with emerging partner nations.
Key Takeaways from the Latest IEC Draws
- 4,965 invitations issued between September 6 and October 10, 2025.
- 39,279 candidates are currently active in the IEC pools.
- Top participating countries include South Korea, Australia, France, Germany, and Ireland.
- 99,343 total invitations issued so far in 2025.
- Program supports youth mobility, cultural exchange, and labour market integration.
Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) Program Continues to Open Global Doors
The IRCC’s latest IEC draw reflects Canada’s strong commitment to empowering international youth through work and travel opportunities. With nearly 5,000 new invitations in just one month, the International Experience Canada (IEC) program continues to bridge global talent with Canadian opportunity.
For many participants, this is more than a temporary work permit, it’s the beginning of a long-term professional and cultural connection with Canada.
If you’re a young professional dreaming of gaining international work experience in Canada, Canada Immigration News can guide you through the process and help you explore pathways that align with your career and immigration goals.
