Work in Canada
Canada Invites Over 8,000 IEC Candidates in May 2025
Canada continues to prioritize international youth mobility through the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. In May 2025 alone, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 8,060 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for open work permits under the IEC initiative, welcoming young professionals from around the world to live and work in Canada.
This monthly surge in invitations reflects Canada’s ongoing efforts to foster global cultural exchange, fill temporary labour gaps, and offer valuable work experience to youth from participating countries. As of May 30, 2025, the IEC pool had 27,994 registered candidates awaiting their chance to receive an invitation.
Top Countries Receiving IEC Invitations in May
IRCC distributed ITAs to candidates from a wide range of partner countries. Notably high numbers were issued to youth from:
| Country | ITAs |
| Japan | 1,663 |
| United Kingdom | 1,456 ITAs |
| Korea | 1,035 |
| France | 799 |
| Australia | 897 |
| Ireland | 301 |
| Germany | 426 |
| Spain | 194 |
| Italy | 245 |
| Taiwan | 176 |
Smaller but consistent allocations were also made to candidates from Austria, Belgium, Costa Rica, the Czech Republic, Portugal, New Zealand, and other participating nations.
IEC Program 2025: A Pathway to Canadian Work Experience
The International Experience Canada program enables youth aged 18 to 35 (depending on the country of origin) to work and travel in Canada through three main streams:
- Working Holiday (open work permit)
- Young Professionals (employer-specific work permit)
- International Co-op Internship (for students)
By the end of May, Canada had issued 73,327 ITAs through the IEC program in 2025 alone, demonstrating strong interest and robust participation.
Why the IEC Program Matters for Global Youth
For thousands of young individuals, the IEC program is more than just a work opportunity—it’s a gateway to exploring life in Canada, building a career, and possibly transitioning to permanent residency. Many participants later qualify under federal programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or via provincial streams under the PNP.
With summer hiring ramping up, now is an ideal time for eligible youth to register in the IEC pool and prepare their documents.
IEC Program Continues to Open Doors for Young Talent in 2025
The steady flow of invitations under the International Experience Canada program proves Canada’s continued dedication to global youth mobility. Whether you’re from Japan, France, or New Zealand, the IEC program offers a direct route to experience the Canadian lifestyle, gain valuable work experience, and explore future immigration options. Stay connected with Canada Immigration News for ongoing IEC draw updates to plan your journey to Canada.
