Canada has opened the 2026 season for the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, with major waves of invitations under the Working Holiday Visa category sent so far as of February 13, 2026.
As of February 13, 2026, the Working Holiday Visa category has already sent 30,972 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across participating countries and territories, out of a total 2026 Working Holiday quota of 45,648.
With 24,210 spots still available at this early stage and 28,052 candidates currently in the pool, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and fastest-moving IEC years in recent memory.
For many young travellers and early-career professionals, the Working Holiday work permit is the fastest way to legally work in Canada without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and without requiring a pre-arranged job offer.
That flexibility is why the Working Holiday category typically moves the most volume first, and why this first draw matters: it sets expectations for how quickly quotas will shrink and which pools will clear early.
Below is the full breakdown of country-wise and category-wise invitations sent during the week ending February 13, 2026.
Table of Contents
Working Holiday Visa Draw Update as of February 13, 2026
| Country | Invitations issued this week | Total invitations issued as of February 13, 2026 | 2026 Quota | Available Spots | Candidates in the pool |
| Andorra | 0 | 3 | 24 | 22 | 0 |
| Australia | 279 | 2,563 | 5,670 | 3,835 | 254 |
| Austria | 19 | 178 | 160 | 29 | 14 |
| Belgium | 40 | 569 | 725 | 303 | 32 |
| Chile | 125 | 625 | 700 | 273 | 5,984 |
| Costa Rica | 10 | 60 | 80 | 47 | 1,558 |
| Croatia | 4 | 48 | 82 | 52 | 1 |
| Czech Republic | 38 | 296 | 512 | 324 | 36 |
| Denmark | 14 | 124 | 266 | 176 | 12 |
| Estonia | 7 | 49 | 100 | 69 | 8 |
| Finland | 10 | 79 | 120 | 67 | 6 |
| France | 758 | 5,569 | 5,661 | 1,509 | 11,756 |
| Germany | 1,644 | 1,644 | 3,030 | 1,929 | 96 |
| Greece | 10 | 89 | 130 | 65 | 8 |
| Hong Kong Special Administrative Region | 11 | 54 | 193 | 156 | 3 |
| Iceland | 0 | 5 | 48 | 45 | 1 |
| Ireland | 269 | 2,316 | 2,735 | 1,211 | 184 |
| Italy | 121 | 1,228 | 1,850 | 1,069 | 97 |
| Japan | 0 | to be announced | To be announced | to be announced | 4,797 |
| Korea, Republic | 463 | 4,759 | 10,239 | 7,076 | 332 |
| Latvia, Republic | 8 | 49 | 40 | 10 | 12 |
| Lithuania | 5 | 73 | 180 | 137 | 10 |
| Luxembourg | 3 | 15 | 42 | 36 | 3 |
| Netherlands | 50 | 549 | 500 | 81 | 174 |
| New Zealand | 0 | to be announced | To be announced | to be announced | 705 |
| Norway | 0 | to be announced | 125 | 125 | 46 |
| Poland | 44 | 225 | 310 | 175 | 22 |
| Portugal | 224 | 224 | 500 | 344 | 23 |
| San Marino | 0 | 2 | 24 | 23 | 0 |
| Slovakia | 15 | 132 | 220 | 136 | 7 |
| Slovenia | 0 | 14 | 33 | 25 | 4 |
| Spain | 240 | 995 | 857 | 196 | 70 |
| Sweden | 127 | 127 | 255 | 171 | 13 |
| Taiwan | 350 | 959 | 907 | 365 | 1,304 |
| United Kingdom | 1,356 | 7,350 | 9,330 | 4,129 | 480 |
| Total | 6,244 | 30,972 | 45,648 | 24,210 | 28,052 |
Why some countries show “not announced” for invitations or quota?
In the IEC season opening phase, it is common for some countries to show “to be announced” in one or more columns.
This typically indicates that the season has opened, pools are forming, but the invitation rounds for that specific country either have not started yet, are pending updates, or are awaiting finalization of operational quotas.
From a candidate perspective, “to be announced” should be treated as “open but not yet moving.”
The correct move is usually to enter the pool as early as possible (if you are eligible) and ensure your profile is accurate, because the first invitations for a country can come in clusters once the round cadence starts.
What to do immediately if you received an ITA
An IEC Working Holiday ITA is time-sensitive. Candidates who delay often miss deadlines, make avoidable document errors, or lose the opportunity to apply in that season.
If you were invited in the first round, your priorities should be:
- Accept the invitation immediately if you plan to proceed.
- Review document requirements early, especially police certificates, which can be the longest bottleneck depending on your country and travel history.
- Prepare proof of funds in a format that is clear and consistent with your bank statements.
- Confirm passport validity. If your passport is expiring soon, renew it early because work permit issuance length can be tied to passport validity.
- Plan biometrics quickly if required, especially if local appointment availability is limited.
A common mistake is assuming the ITA means the work permit is guaranteed. It is not.
Your application must be complete, truthful, and consistent, including travel history, address history, and any prior visas or refusals.
What to do if you are still in the pool
If you are still waiting as of January 26, 2026, the best strategy is usually not to “wait passively.”
Instead, you should actively improve your readiness so that when an invitation arrives, you can submit without scrambling.
Key actions:
- Re-check your profile for accuracy and completeness.
- Track the pool numbers and available spots for your country.
- Prepare documents that take time (police certificates, reference letters if needed for other categories, internship confirmation letters for International Co-op).
- Consider whether you qualify for Young Professionals or International Co-op if your Working Holiday odds look tight.
- Start planning for job search and settlement logistics so that once approved, you can move quickly.
Understanding the three IEC pathways and how they differ
Many candidates treat IEC as “Working Holiday only,” but the 2026 tables show why the other pathways can be strategic.
Working Holiday
- Open work permit in most cases.
- No job offer required to apply.
- Highest demand and typically the largest pools.
Young Professionals
- Employer-specific work permit.
- Requires a qualifying job offer that aligns with career development.
- Often less crowded than Working Holiday for many countries, but depends heavily on job-offer access.
International Co-op (Internships)
- Employer-specific work permit tied to an internship placement.
- Typically requires proof that the placement is connected to studies.
- Can be the best fit for students who can structure a Canadian internship through their institution or program requirements.
In 2026, candidates who can access a legitimate job offer or internship placement may find the non-Working Holiday categories to be faster and less stressful, even if they require more planning upfront.
Young Professionals draw results as of February 13, 2026
| Country | Invitations issued this week | Total invitations issued as of February 13, 2026 | 2026 Quota | Available Spots | Candidates in the pool |
| Australia | 11 | 58 | 50 | 33 | 3 |
| Austria | 2 | 7 | 10 | 8 | 1 |
| Chile | 3 | 26 | 20 | 8 | 251 |
| Costa Rica | 2 | 19 | 15 | 4 | 198 |
| Croatia | 0 | 0 | 10 | 10 | 0 |
| Czech Republic | 4 | 35 | 160 | 136 | 3 |
| Estonia | 0 | 4 | 16 | 12 | 0 |
| Finland | 2 | 8 | 15 | 10 | 0 |
| France | 98 | 743 | 1,900 | 1,453 | 84 |
| France (Volontariat international en entreprise (VIE)) | 6 | 116 | 650 | 547 | 34 |
| Germany | 146 | 146 | 350 | 271 | 15 |
| Greece | 2 | 25 | 58 | 44 | 2 |
| Ireland | 10 | 58 | 48 | 28 | 5 |
| Italy | 7 | 51 | 60 | 44 | 8 |
| Korea, Republic | 7 | 84 | 200 | 173 | 4 |
| Latvia, Republic | 0 | 2 | 5 | 4 | 0 |
| Lithuania | 2 | 8 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Luxembourg | 0 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Netherlands | 12 | 112 | 80 | 10 | 8 |
| Norway | 0 | to be announced | 15 | 15 | 3 |
| Poland | 2 | 20 | 100 | 90 | 2 |
| Portugal | 5 | 5 | 22 | 19 | 1 |
| Slovakia | 5 | 31 | 41 | 22 | 1 |
| Slovenia | 0 | 0 | 10 | 10 | 0 |
| Spain | 12 | 81 | 100 | 64 | 11 |
| Spain ICEX Vives | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 | n/a |
| Sweden | 7 | 7 | 30 | 26 | 0 |
| Switzerland | 74 | 74 | 207 | 160 | 4 |
| Taiwan | 21 | 65 | 55 | 29 | 8 |
| United Kingdom | 76 | 350 | 322 | 194 | 39 |
| Total | 522 | 2,142 | 4,567 | 3,433 | 685 |
What the Young Professionals numbers reveal
The early Young Professionals invitation count of 2,142 is meaningful because this category usually moves more quietly than Working Holiday, yet it can produce faster approvals for candidates who are well-prepared.
Several patterns are visible in these numbers:
France is moving aggressively in Young Professionals
- 743 invitations have already been issued, with 1,453 spots still available and 84 candidates in the pool.
- This is one of the clearest signs of a low-congestion pathway where eligible candidates may receive invitations quickly, assuming job offers are valid and meet program rules.
The United Kingdom and Korea also show strong early movement
- United Kingdom: 350 invitations with 194 spots available and 39 candidates in the pool.
- Korea, Republic: 84 invitations with 173 spots available and 4 candidates in the pool.
Costa Rica stands out as unusually competitive in Young Professionals
- If you are a Costa Rican candidate, a Working Holiday plan alone may not be sufficient. You may need a broader Canada strategy, including employer outreach and alternative work permit pathways outside IEC where eligible.
- 1,558 candidates in the WH pool for 47 available spots, even after 10 invitations.
International Co-op (Internships) results as of February 13, 2026
| Country | Invitations issued this week | Total invitations issued as of February 13, 2026 | 2026 Quota | Available Spots | Candidates in the pool |
| Australia | 0 | 2 | 17 | 16 | 1 |
| Austria | 0 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 0 |
| Chile | 0 | 2 | 5 | 4 | 0 |
| Costa Rica | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Croatia | 0 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| Czech Republic | 0 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| Estonia | 0 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| Finland | 2 | 2 | 10 | 9 | 1 |
| France | 151 | 1,421 | 2,790 | 1,674 | 121 |
| Germany | 42 | 42 | 100 | 73 | 4 |
| Greece | 0 | 1 | 5 | 4 | 0 |
| Ireland | 0 | 4 | 20 | 17 | 2 |
| Italy | 3 | 20 | 23 | 12 | 4 |
| Korea, Republic | -1 | 2 | 50 | 49 | 1 |
| Latvia, Republic | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Lithuania | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Luxembourg | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Norway | 0 | to be announced | 5 | 5 | 1 |
| Poland | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 0 |
| Portugal | 2 | 2 | 10 | 9 | 0 |
| Slovakia | 0 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| Slovenia | 0 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| Spain | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Sweden | 0 | 0 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| Switzerland | 14 | 14 | 35 | 24 | 0 |
| Taiwan | 0 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| United Kingdom | 3 | 19 | 15 | 11 | 0 |
| Total | 219 | 1,546 | 3,144 | 1,957 | 135 |
Why International Co-op can be a hidden advantage in 2026?
The International Co-op category is often underestimated because it requires a structured internship placement.
But when candidates can meet that requirement, the pool sizes can be dramatically smaller than Working Holiday, and the invitation-to-spot ratios can be more favourable.
France is again the clear volume driver
- 1,421 invitations have already been issued with 1,674 spots still available, and only 121 candidates are in the pool.
- This suggests a strong probability of continued invitations for eligible candidates with proper internship arrangements.
Several pools show extremely low candidate counts
- Many pools with 0 to 2 candidates can move quickly, but only if candidates enter correctly and can prove their internship meets program rules.
The core barrier is not competition; it is eligibility
- Candidates need a credible internship letter, proof of student status where required, and a placement that aligns with the program’s internship intent.
For students and recent students who can set up a Canadian internship through their university or a legitimate employer relationship, International Co-op can be the best “certainty play” in IEC.
Common mistakes that cause IEC refusals after an ITA
Even though IEC is popular, refusals still happen, often for preventable reasons.
The most common issues include:
- Passport validity problems that shorten the work permit or create mismatches.
- Police certificates missing, expired, or inconsistent with travel history.
- Inconsistent address history, employment history, or travel history.
- Misunderstanding open work permit versus employer-specific rules.
- Weak proof of funds presentation, especially if statements are unclear or funds are not readily accessible.
- For Young Professionals and International Co-op: job offer or internship documentation that does not meet program intent.
What these early numbers suggest for the rest of the IEC 2026 season?
Based on the scale of the first round, 2026 is likely to develop in phases:
Phase 1: January to February
- High-volume early invitations for countries already moving strongly.
- Countries marked “to be announced” begin receiving invitations once round cadence starts.
Phase 2: March to May
- Working Holiday pools tighten for oversubscribed countries.
- Young Professionals and International Co-op continue steady movement, often with better predictability.
Phase 3: June onward
- Many countries begin to show reduced available spots, and late entrants face a higher chance of missing the season unless their country’s pool is under-subscribed.
- Candidates shift toward alternative plans if IEC timelines do not align.
The first few Canada Working Holiday Visa draws of 2026 are already setting the tone for a fast-moving IEC season, with over 34,000 ITAs issued by February 13 and tens of thousands of candidates still competing across pools.
For readers, the smartest move right now is to treat these initial rounds as a strategy map: check your country’s pool pressure, prepare documents before you are invited, and seriously consider Young Professionals or International Co-op if your Working Holiday pool is crowded.
In a year where timing will decide who lands in Canada first, readiness is the real advantage.
Frequently asked questions about the first 2026 IEC draw
How long do I have to enter Canada after my IEC Working Holiday visa is approved?
Most candidates want to know the practical timeline between approval and travel. In general, after your application is approved, you receive a letter of introduction that sets a deadline to arrive in Canada. Your work permit is issued at the border when you enter Canada, and the validity period typically starts then, not when you get invited. Always check the exact expiry date on your letter and plan travel accordingly.
Can I work for any employer anywhere in Canada on a Working Holiday permit?
Working Holiday is commonly used as an open work permit, which usually means you can change employers and locations without applying again. However, some jobs can require extra steps, such as a medical exam if you plan to work in certain fields (for example, with vulnerable populations or in some health-related roles). Candidates also ask whether they can do remote work, self-employment, or gig work—this can be possible depending on the situation, but you should ensure your work is legal, properly taxed, and consistent with permit conditions.
What should I do if my passport expires soon, and can my work permit be issued for a shorter period because of it?
This is a major “surprise” issue. If your passport expiry is earlier than the maximum duration you could otherwise receive, officers can issue a shorter work permit that matches your passport validity. Renewing your passport before you travel can help you avoid losing months of eligibility. If you renew after you arrive, you may need to explore options to extend or change status, which can be complicated.
Can I update my IEC profile after joining the pool, and does it affect my chances?
Yes, you can typically update parts of your profile while you are in the pool, and candidates frequently ask if edits “reset” anything. The key is to keep your profile truthful and consistent with your real documents. Changes like a new passport number, new address, or corrected details are common. What can hurt you is making changes that create inconsistencies with future proof documents, or failing to update something important and then trying to explain it later during the work permit application.
What should I do if I don’t get an IEC invitation for a long time?
Keep your IEC profile active and prepare documents in advance so you can apply quickly if invited. If delays continue, consider backup pathways based on your situation, such as employer-supported options, study-based planning, or other immigration programs. The best alternative depends on your eligibility and whether you can secure a qualifying job or admission.
Can a Canadian citizen sponsor an asylum-seeking spouse?
Yes, as a Canadian citizen, you can sponsor your spouse who is an asylum seeker, provided she has submitted an asylum application and is awaiting a decision. You must demonstrate your ability to support her financially and provide evidence of your relationship, such as marriage documents. The sponsorship process involves completing forms and submitting them to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Due to the complexities involved, it is advisable to consult an immigration lawyer or consultant for tailored guidance. For more information, visit the IRCC website.
How can an asylum seeker sponsor their spouse in Canada?
An asylum seeker in Canada may face challenges when attempting to sponsor their spouse for permanent residency. While a Canadian citizen or permanent resident can typically sponsor their spouse, the asylum seeker's pending status may complicate this process. The sponsor must demonstrate financial capability and provide legal proof of marriage recognized by Canadian law. It is advisable to consult an immigration lawyer or consultant for personalized guidance, as immigration rules can change. For more information, visit the Government of Canada immigration page.
Can teachers find job opportunities in Canada?
Yes, teachers can find job opportunities in Canada, as there is a strong demand for educators in various provinces, particularly in elementary and secondary education. To teach in Canada, individuals typically need to obtain certification from the relevant province, which may involve having a degree in education, passing exams, and completing a background check. Internationally educated teachers may need credential assessment and additional training. Job seekers can explore openings on platforms like Job Bank and provincial education ministry websites. For those looking to immigrate, pathways such as the Express Entry system or Provincial Nominee Programs may be available.
What are the steps to apply for immigration to Canada?
To apply for immigration to Canada, first determine your eligibility based on various programs such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, Family Sponsorship, or Student Visa. Next, gather required documents like proof of identity, educational credentials, work experience letters, and language proficiency test results. Create an online profile for programs like Express Entry and await an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if you meet the criteria. After receiving an ITA, submit your application with all necessary documents and fees. Finally, wait for processing and prepare for your arrival in Canada. For detailed information, visit the official Government of Canada website.
How do I apply for a working visa in Canada?
To apply for a working visa in Canada, you need to determine which type of work permit suits your situation: an employer-specific work permit, which requires a job offer and potentially a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), or an open work permit, available to certain applicants like spouses of skilled workers. Gather necessary documents, including your job offer and proof of qualifications, and submit your application online or by paper. You may also need to provide biometrics. For detailed guidance, visit the official IRCC website.
What type of visa do I need for travel?
To determine the appropriate visa for your travel, specify the type you need, such as a visitor visa, work visa, or study permit. Additionally, indicate the country you plan to visit and any specific requirements or circumstances that may influence your application. For detailed information on visa types and application processes, visit the Government of Canada’s immigration page.
Is empregos.com a legitimate job website?
Empregos.com is a job portal that primarily lists job opportunities in Brazil. To determine its legitimacy, verify user reviews, check for clear contact information, and assess the quality of job listings. Be cautious of postings that seem unrealistic or require upfront fees. Ensure the site has a clear privacy policy regarding your personal information. If you have concerns about specific job postings, consider using more established job search platforms.
Is Nigeria eligible for the Canada Working Holiday Visa?
Nigeria is currently not eligible for the Canada Working Holiday Visa under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This program primarily targets youth from specific participating countries, and while several African nations are included, Nigeria has historically not been one of them. Eligibility criteria may change, so it is advisable to regularly check the official Government of Canada website for updates regarding participating countries in the Working Holiday Visa program.
How do I apply for Provincial Nominee Programs in Canada?
To apply for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Canada, visit the official IRCC website for general information. Each province has its own PNP with specific criteria and application processes. You can find links to provincial immigration websites, such as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program and the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program. After selecting a province, follow their specific application instructions to ensure compliance with their requirements.
Can a 39-year-old apply for a Canada Working Holiday Visa?
The Canada Working Holiday Visa has an age limit, requiring applicants to be between 18 and 35 years old. As a 39-year-old, you do not qualify for this visa. However, other visa options may be available, such as the Young Professionals Program, which also targets younger applicants, and the Express Entry system, which has no specific age limit but considers age in the Comprehensive Ranking System score. For more information on visa options, visit the Government of Canada immigration page.
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