The International Experience Canada (IEC) program for 2025 has officially opened its pools but with significant changes regarding flagpoling practices. As of December 23, workers and students in Canada can no longer use flagpoling to activate their work permits, marking a major shift in immigration procedures. While the impact on IEC workers with existing POE letters remains unclear, those planning to enter through the US borders must now carefully consider the US immigration requirements. The first round of invitations is scheduled to begin January 13 for select countries, with expectations of potentially reduced quotas for the 2025 season.