The 2025 International Experience Canada (IEC) Season Has Officially Launched
The International Experience Canada (IEC) 2025 season has officially started! As of December 16, 2024, eligible candidates can enter the pools and begin their journey toward working and traveling in Canada. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Canada’s culture while earning income, now is the time to act. The first invitations will be sent out during the week of January 13, 2025, so getting started early can improve your chances.
Understanding International Experience Canada (IEC)
IEC is a Canadian government program that allows young people from partner countries to work and travel in Canada. It offers three unique categories:
1. Working Holiday
This category is ideal for those who want flexibility and adventure. Participants are granted an open work permit to work for any employer and travel across Canada. It is ideal for those who want to experience different cities and cultures.
3. International Co-op (Internship)
This category is meant for students whose academic program includes work experience. An applicant should obtain a placement that is directly related to their studies. They will also be issued an employer-specific work permit.
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
What’s new for IEC 2025?
The 2025 IEC season comes with a couple of changes that candidates should know about:
Updated Program Fees
For 2025, the IEC participation fee increased from CAD 172 in 2024 to CAD 179.75. This represents a revision based on updated administrative costs.
Changes in Quotas
For some countries, their overall quotas, as well as quotas for certain streams, have changed. For instance:
- Australia: Unlimited quotas historically for all categories may be restricted to 2025, though official numbers are pending.
- France: More than 2,000 spots have been cut under the Working Holiday and Young Professionals quotas combined, while the International Co-op has gained almost 3,000 more spots.
- South Korea: The quota for working holidays dropped by 1,625, but the quotas for young professionals and international co-ops increased proportionally.
- Taiwan: The biggest decrease was in the Working Holiday category, which lost 2,240 spots.
Why Early Submission Matters
IEC works based on a lottery system: candidates are invited randomly from the pool. The early submission of your profile allows it to be in the pool for all rounds of invitations, thereby increasing your chances of selection enormously. The first round is set to start the week of January 13, 2025.
Steps to Prepare for IEC 2025
Here’s how to get ready:
1. Confirm Your Eligibility
Check the eligibility for the pool you want to apply to. Eligibility is based on age, citizenship, and some other requirements depending on the program for which you are applying. Further information can be found on the IRCC website.
2. Create Your IEC Profile
Create your profile after logging into your account. If you have participated in previous years, you will be required to create a new profile for 2025.
3. Early Submission of Profile
Submitting early increases your chances of being shortlisted in various invitation rounds. Avoid mistakes by confirming that all information was entered correctly before submission.
4. Preparation of Documents
When you get an invitation, you’ll have to move quickly. The few documents that need to be prepared can be done beforehand, like police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds.
Country-Specific Quotas for IEC 2025
While some quotas are still pending, here’s a snapshot of what’s available:
Working Holiday Quotas
- France: 6,615 spots
- South Korea: 10,000 spots
- Italy: 1,750 spots
- Taiwan: 940 spots
- New Zealand: 2,500 spots
Young Professionals Quotas
- France: 2,080 spots
- South Korea: 1,500 spots
- Italy: 200 spots
- Taiwan: 50 spots
International Co-op Quotas
- France: 3,950 spots
- South Korea: 500 spots
- Italy: 50 spots
- Taiwan: 10 spots
How Long Does It Take to Process an Application?
Most applications are processed within six weeks. Ensure all your documents are complete to avoid delays.
Which Countries Are Eligible for IEC?
Over 30 countries participate in the IEC program, including France, South Korea, Italy, Australia, and Taiwan. For a full list, visit the IRCC website.
What Proof of Funds is Required?
Applicants should be able to show that they can support themselves with enough funds for their stay in Canada. The amounts vary, and one needs to refer to the IRCC guidelines for this.
Tips for a Successful Application
Follow these tips for a successful application:
- Keep updated: IRCC publishes quotas reached and rounds of invitations regularly.
- Organize Documents Early: Ensure all necessary paperwork is ready to avoid last-minute stress.
- Apply promptly: Respond to invitations and complete applications within the given timeframes.
The IEC program offers a unique opportunity to work, travel, and grow in Canada. With the 2025 season bringing updates and increased competition, acting early and staying prepared are more important than ever. Create your profile today and take the first step toward an incredible adventure in Canada!
