Work in Canada
Canada Issues 5,992 Invitations for Young Professionals in the Latest IEC Draw
Canada has long been a top destination for young professionals seeking to gain international work experience while enjoying the country’s diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s the bustling urban life of Toronto, the natural beauty of British Columbia, or the career opportunities spread across the provinces, Canada offers endless possibilities.
Between February 3 and February 9, 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 5,992 candidates under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program to apply for open work permits. This latest round of invitations marks another significant step in Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract young global talent.
Wondering if your country was part of this round of invitations? Read on to find out more about the IEC program, the latest draw highlights, and how you can get started on your Canadian adventure.
What is the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is designed to help young people from around the world gain valuable work experience while exploring life in Canada. It aims to promote cultural exchange and professional development by allowing participants to live and work in Canada temporarily.
The program offers three distinct categories to meet different goals:
- Working Holiday: Ideal for those looking for flexible job opportunities while traveling in Canada. Participants receive an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in almost any industry.
- Young Professionals: Tailored for individuals seeking career development opportunities. This category requires a job offer from a Canadian employer related to the applicant’s professional background, providing valuable international work experience.
- International Co-op (Internship): Designed for students enrolled in post-secondary institutions who need to complete internships related to their academic studies.
If you’re between 18 and 35 years old (age limits vary depending on your country) and hold a valid passport, the IEC could be your pathway to gaining global work experience in Canada.
IEC Draw Highlights
During the latest draw conducted by IRCC, 5,992 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates from various countries. The countries that received a significant number of ITAs include Australia, France, the United Kingdom, South Korea, and Japan. France led the draw with 2,490 ITAs, followed by the United Kingdom with 787 ITAs and South Korea with 752 ITAs. Other countries such as Ireland, Japan, Germany, and Taiwan also saw a strong presence in this round.
In addition to these, candidates from countries like Chile, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Belgium, Austria, and many others were also invited. This wide distribution of ITAs reflects Canada’s commitment to maintaining strong international partnerships through bilateral youth mobility agreements.
As of February 9, 2025, there were 24,375 candidates registered in the IEC pool, eagerly waiting for their chance to receive an invitation.
How to Apply for the IEC Program
If you’re interested in applying for the IEC program, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Check Your Eligibility: Visit the official IRCC website to confirm if your country has an agreement with Canada under the IEC program. Eligibility criteria vary depending on your nationality.
- Create an IEC Profile: If you meet the eligibility requirements, create an online profile on the IRCC website. This profile places you in the candidate pool for your selected IEC category.
- Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you’re selected from the pool, you’ll receive an ITA. This invitation allows you to submit a formal application for a Canadian work permit.
- Submit Your Application: Complete the application form and submit all required documents, such as proof of identity, a police certificate, and a medical exam if applicable. You’ll also need to pay the necessary fees.
- Receive Your Work Permit: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) letter. Present this letter when you arrive in Canada to receive your work permit.
Applying early increases your chances of receiving an ITA since the number of invitations varies based on the demand and quota for each country.
The latest round of IEC draws highlights Canada’s dedication to supporting young professionals seeking international work experience. The International Experience Canada (IEC) program not only helps you gain valuable professional skills but also allows you to immerse yourself in Canadian culture and build global connections.
If you’ve been dreaming of working abroad, the time to act is now. Canada continues to welcome young talent, and with the IEC program, your international journey is just an application away.
