Canada Announces Country-Specific Quotas for LMIA-Exempt Work Permits Under the IEC Program in 2025

Canada's International Experience Canada (IEC) program has officially released its country quotas for issuing LMIA-exempt work permits in 2025. This initiative provides an opportunity for young individuals from partner nations with bilateral Youth Mobility Agreements (bYMAs) to gain professional experience in Canada.

This article will provide an in-depth look at the announced country quotas, an overview of the IEC program, and real-world applications of these work permits in various industries.

Understanding the IEC Program

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program facilitates work permits for youth from countries that have established youth mobility agreements with Canada. The program is designed to promote cultural exchange and international work experience, allowing participants to live and work in Canada temporarily.

Under the IEC, participants can apply for work permits in one of three categories:

1. Working Holiday – Open work permits (OWPs) allow individuals to work for any employer across Canada.

2. Young Professionals – Employer-specific work permits are issued to individuals who have secured a job offer that contributes to their professional development.

3. International Co-op (Internship) – Employer-specific permits are provided to students who need work experience as part of their academic curriculum.

Country-Specific Quotas for 2025

Below is a breakdown of the work permit quotas per country, along with the maximum age limit for eligibility:

This quota system ensures fair participation while addressing Canada’s labor market needs.

Eligibility Criteria for the IEC Program

To qualify for an IEC work permit, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of a country with a bilateral Youth Mobility Agreement with Canada.

• Be between 18 and 30/35 years old (varies by country).

• Hold a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.

• Have at least $2,500 CAD upon arrival to cover initial living expenses.

• Obtain health insurance for the duration of their stay.

• Be admissible to Canada (no criminal or medical inadmissibility).

• Have a round-trip ticket or sufficient funds for departure.

• Pay applicable visa and processing fees.

Real-World Use Cases of IEC Work Permits

1. Career Growth for Young Professionals

A marketing graduate from Germany secures a Young Professionals work permit to join a Canadian digital marketing firm. This role enhances their resume with international experience, making them a competitive candidate for future global career opportunities.

2. Skill Development Through Working Holidays

A software engineer from France applies for a Working Holiday visa, allowing them to explore freelance and contract-based roles in Canada’s growing tech sector. This flexibility enables them to gain diverse experiences across multiple projects and employers.

3. Internship Opportunities for Students

An engineering student from Japan obtains an International Co-op work permit to intern with a Canadian aerospace company. This hands-on experience contributes to their university coursework and provides a competitive edge in the job market upon graduation.

Conclusion

Canada’s IEC program continues to provide invaluable opportunities for young professionals worldwide, allowing them to gain international exposure while contributing to Canada’s labor market. By leveraging the right work permit category, participants can unlock career advancements, cultural experiences, and long-term professional growth.

Declaration:

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. For official details, visit the Government of Canada’s IEC webpage.

For further assistance on your IEC application, schedule a consultation with our immigration experts today!