Canada has officially launched applications for the 2025 International Experience Canada (IEC) program, offering young adventurers from eligible countries the opportunity of a lifetime. Imagine working in a bustling city like Toronto, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia, or experiencing the rich culture of Quebec—all while gaining international work experience and funding your travels through a government-supported program. The IEC 2025 season is here, and now is the time to act!
Who Can Apply for IEC 2025?
Individuals aged 18 to 35 (18 to 30 for some countries) can now check their eligibility to participate in IEC. The program offers three categories:
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- Working Holiday: Open work permit allowing flexibility to work with multiple employers.
- Young Professionals: Employer-specific work permit for career-related experience.
- International Co-op (Internship): Employer-specific permit for students needing work placements.
How to Apply?
Step 1: Create Your IEC Profile: Applicants must first create a profile online. Eligible profiles will be entered into IEC pools based on the selected category.
Step 2: Receive an Invitation to Apply: Canada issues invitations regularly, and successful candidates will have 10 days to accept the invitation and 20 additional days to submit their work permit applications.
Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit: After accepting the invitation, applicants must submit all required documents and pay a processing fee of CAN$179.75. Additional fees may apply.
Step 4: Receive Port of Entry (POE) Letter: Successful applicants receive a POE letter, which must be presented upon arrival in Canada. If already in Canada, candidates must leave and re-enter to activate their work permit. Note that re-entering from the U.S. or Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon may not be valid for activation.
Application Timeline for 2025
The IEC 2025 pools are now open here https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec.html, and candidates can submit profiles immediately. The rounds of invitations will determine when specific selections take place for each country.
Processing Time & Recognized Organizations
- Processing time: Approximately 2 weeks after biometric submission.
- Recognized Organizations (ROs): 8 organizations are available to assist participants in planning their experience.