Work in Canada
International Experience Canada Draw 2025 Concludes With Nearly 3000 Invitations Issued
The International Experience Canada draw 2025 has officially reached its final round of invitations for the year. The last selection cycle closed with 2,946 young applicants invited to apply for open work permits. This marks the end of this year’s invitation rounds within the popular youth mobility program that allows young people from partner countries to live, work and explore Canada for a limited period.
For many, this program is more than a work permit. It represents a chance to develop international experience, explore new environments, and build meaningful professional and cultural connections within Canada.
What Is the International Experience Canada Program
The International Experience Canada program supports youth mobility agreements between Canada and various partner countries. It allows eligible young adults to live in Canada while gaining paid work experience. The program is widely valued by both international applicants and Canadian employers who rely on additional seasonal and short-term workers to maintain business operations in tourism, agriculture, hospitality, and skilled trade environments.
The IEC program operates through three main participation categories:
| Stream | Description |
| Working Holiday | Provides an open work permit that allows flexible employment options |
| Young Professionals | Offers a work permit tied to a specific employer for career development |
| International Co-op | Supports students who need work placements connected to academic training |
Highlights From the Final International Experience Canada Draw 2025
During the last draw period, invitations were issued across multiple partner countries. Countries with the highest number of selected applicants include:
• Korea
• France
• Germany
• Australia
• Italy
• Ireland
• New Zealand
In total, 2,946 invitations were issued in the final round. At the time the draw closed, 40,086 profiles were still active in the pool waiting for selection. Across the entire year, Canada issued 102,289 invitations under the IEC program. This reflects continued strong demand among international youth who view Canada as an ideal destination for working holidays and career growth.
Why Canada Continues to Prioritize Youth Mobility
Canada benefits from the International Experience Canada program in several ways:
• Increases cultural exchange and global cooperation
• Supports industries with labour shortages
• Encourages future immigration among experienced workers
• Builds global awareness of Canadian values and opportunities
Young workers contribute to the economy while also experiencing a structured and fair employment environment.
Why This Program Is a Launchpad for Permanent Residency
Many participants who come through the International Experience Canada program eventually choose to remain in Canada through long-term immigration pathways. Canadian work experience is highly valued within several immigration systems, especially:
• Express Entry
• Canadian Experience Class
• Provincial Nominee Programs
• Francophone recruitment streams
Work experience gained during IEC participation helps build stronger applications later. It improves CRS scores, provides Canadian job references, and helps individuals settle with ease.
What Happens If You Did Not Receive an Invitation This Year
Applicants who did not receive an invitation in the final International Experience Canada draw 2025 have the option to remain in the pool for the next season. New quotas and country-specific allocations will be announced when the 2026 IEC season opens.
To improve chances next season:
• Keep your profile active and accurate
• Prepare required documents early
• Watch for opening dates for your specific country
• Respond quickly to invitations once issued
Canada continues to see strong participation from countries with long standing cultural and travel ties to Canada, such as Ireland, Germany, France, Australia, and New Zealand. The closing of the International Experience Canada draw 2025 highlights another successful year of youth mobility and cultural exchange. With nearly 3,000 invitations issued in the final round and more than 102,000 issued throughout the year, the program continues to support both international youth and Canada’s economic and community growth. Stay tuned for the next IEC draw with Canada Immigration News!
