Opening of the 2025 season of the International Experience Canada program: what you need to know

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program officially opens its doors for the 2025 season, great news for young adults looking for a professional opportunity or travel experience in Canada. As of December 16, 2024, applicant pools are open for most partner countries, giving young people from all over the world the chance to try their luck at working and traveling in this vast North American country.

The CIS, managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aims to offer a unique experience to those who want to explore Canada while earning a living. The program is open to young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 (depending on bilateral agreements between Canada and partner countries). Here's a complete roundup of EIC's new 2025 season.

What is the International Experience Canada program?

EIC is an international exchange program that enables young people to live in Canada for a limited time, while working. The program is divided into three main categories:

1. Working Holiday Permit (WHP) This is the most popular category, allowing participants to work for any employer and explore the country freely.
2. Young professionals This option is designed for young people who have a confirmed job offer in their field of expertise.
3. International co-op internship Suitable for students who need to complete a work placement as part of their studies.

These three options offer an enriching experience for developing professional skills, perfecting language skills and exploring Canada while living a unique adventure.

Pool opening 2025: what you need to know

The official announcement of the opening of the pools for the 2025 season was made on December 16, 2024marking the start of registration. From now on, interested candidates can submit their profile online via the official IRCC website. This process is a random draw, which means that candidates will be selected as the invitation rounds progress.

Each pool is associated with an EIC program category and a partner country. For each draw, invitations are sent to selected candidates to apply for a work permit.

Points to note:

• The number of places available varies according to the bilateral agreements between Canada and each partner country.
• Registration is free and without obligation. Invited candidates are, however, required to pay a processing fee once they accept the invitation.
• Draws continue until all quotas are filled or the season ends.

Key steps for participating in the EIC 2025 program

Taking part in EIC involves several simple but precise steps:

1. Profile creation Candidates must complete an online profile on the IRCC website, specifying the category they wish to apply for.
2. Entering the pools Once the profile has been validated, the candidate automatically enters the pool for his/her country and category.
3. Invitation rounds : Candidates are randomly selected in a draw.
4. Acceptance of invitation If selected, the candidate receives an invitation to apply for a work permit.
5. Application submission Applicants must provide the required documents (passport, photos, proof of funds, etc.) and pay the processing fee.
6. Receipt of permit Once the application has been approved, the candidate receives a letter of introduction, which will enable him or her to obtain a work permit on arrival in Canada.

The benefits of the International Experience Canada program

Participating in the EIC offers many advantages:

• A rewarding professional experience Whether you're looking for a temporary job or an internship, the EIC helps you develop new skills and improve your CV.
• The opportunity to travel The Canadian provinces, from the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia to the magnificent landscapes of Quebec.
• Cultural discovery : Living in Canada means immersing yourself in a multicultural, dynamic and welcoming society.
• Improving language skills Canada is a bilingual country, where participants can perfect their English and/or French.

Tips for maximizing your chances of selection

To increase your chances of being invited to apply, here are a few useful tips:

1. Apply as soon as the pools open The sooner you submit your profile, the greater your chances of being selected in the first draws.
2. Prepare documents in advance : Having a valid passport, proof of funds (if applicable) and other required documents means you can react quickly in the event of an invitation.
3. Check regularly for updates IRCC frequently publishes information on remaining quotas and upcoming invitation rounds.
4. Be patient : Draws continue for several months, so it's important to remain vigilant and check your online account regularly.

Conclusion

The opening of the 2025 season of the International Experience Canada program represents a tremendous opportunity for young people from all over the world. Whether you're looking to work temporarily, complete an internship or simply explore the country, EIC offers a flexible framework suited to a wide range of profiles. With the pools now open, it's time to prepare your project and try your luck for a unique experience in Canada.