Canada is once again affirming its commitment to attracting the best and brightest around the world by its first IEC draw 2025. From January 13 to January 19, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued invitations to apply for an IEC open work permit to 11,275 young people. This great momentum seen in the year’s start means Canada will continue to strengthen its ties with other countries by opening doors for international talent to join its workforce.
What is International Experience Canada (IEC)?: IEC draw 2025
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young people from partner countries to gain valuable work experience in Canada. IEC candidates can apply for an open work permit, which allows them to work for almost any employer in Canada. This program, including initiatives like the upcoming IEC draw 2025, is part of Canada’s broader efforts to promote cultural exchange, international collaboration, and workforce diversity.
IEC is divided into three main streams:
- Working Holiday: Offers an open work permit where participants can sponsor their travels by working in Canada.
- Young Professionals: Employer-specific work permits for those who want professional work experience.
- International Co-op (Internship): Designed for students who must complete an internship as part of their academic program.
The first draw of 2025 was a promising start, inviting candidates from more than 30 countries.
Highlights of the First IEC Draw 2025
From January 13 to January 19, IRCC issued ITAs to applicants from around partner countries. In total, there have been some important numbers that outline diversity and show where the program really does span:
- Australia: 1,196 ITAs
- France: 1,818 ITAs
- United Kingdom: 1,727 ITAs
- Ireland: 573 ITAs
- Italy: 568 ITAs
- Korea: 1,696 ITAs
- Spain: 447 ITAs
- New Zealand: 355 ITAs
Austria, Belgium, Costa Rica, and Taiwan also have large representations. This figure indicates the importance of developing international relations in Canada and offering a chance for young professionals globally under programs like IEC Draw 2025, which still continues to attract talent from various nations.
Current Pool Statistics
Until now, on January 19, 2025, a total of 33,713 candidates are registered in the IEC pool waiting for their turn to get the invitation. The program’s popularity is still rising, which could be due to Canada’s well-known reputation for being a popular destination for international work experience and cultural exchange.
Benefits of the IEC Program
The IEC program offers numerous benefits, not just for participants but also for Canada as a whole. Here are some key advantages:
- Valuable Work Experience: Participants will get exposure to Canada’s dynamic work environment, which will enhance their professional skills and global employability.
- Cultural Exchange: IEC promotes cross-cultural understanding, allowing participants to experience Canadian society while sharing their own culture.
- Economic Growth: Skilled and young workers boost Canada’s economy, which in turn fills labor market gaps in many different industries.
- For most of the participants, the IEC program will provide a gateway to exploring more long-term immigration options in Canada.
Why Choose Canada?
Canada is an immigration-friendly country, has a powerful economy, and lives up to a standard quality of living. The land is known for its diverse cultures, world-class health care, and excellent career options. Programs such as IEC draw 2025 reflect how Canada is focusing on international relationships and providing opportunities for global talent.
When do IEC pools open in 2025?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) pools for the 2025 season have opened, on December 16, 2024. Anyone qualified can go ahead and create profiles that will be put in the pool for a draw. The draws have started rolling during the week of January 13, 2025. Submission as early as possible is usually the best, especially since invitations are issued randomly in a weekly lottery system.
Canada’s Growing Appeal to Young Talent
The first IEC draw in 2025 shows Canada’s continued drive to attract young, skilled people from diverse backgrounds. In welcoming more than 11,000 candidates in one week, Canada continues to distinguish itself as a global leader in workforce mobility and cultural exchange. With more than 33,000 candidates remaining in the pool, future draws promise even more opportunities for young professionals eager to explore life and work in Canada.
If you want to know more details about “IRCC Holds First IEC Draw 2025, Inviting Over 11,000 Candidates“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
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