Canada has significantly updated its Express Entry system by removing the additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points awarded for job offers, including those backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This change took effect on March 25, 2025, as per the latest Ministerial Instructions.
What Has Changed?
Previously, candidates in the Express Entry pool could receive an extra 50 or 200 CRS points for having a qualifying job offer, which greatly enhanced their chances of obtaining an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. With the recent policy shift, these bonus points are no longer available, impacting all candidates who previously benefited from them.
However, those who have already received ITAs or have submitted permanent residence applications will not be affected. IRCC has described this removal as a temporary measure but has not provided any details on when it might be reversed.
Why Was This Change Implemented?
Former Immigration Minister Marc Miller first announced the policy adjustment on December 17, 2024. The primary objective was to deter fraudulent practices, such as candidates attempting to unlawfully obtain LMIAs to boost their CRS scores. The Canadian government is intensifying efforts to maintain the integrity of its immigration system by preventing fraud and ensuring fairness in candidate selection.
Recent measures to combat immigration fraud include proposed regulations to better regulate immigration consultants and provide financial compensation for individuals affected by fraudulent activities.
How Will Express Entry Candidates Be Affected?
For Candidates With Job Offers
Those who previously relied on CRS points from a job offer will see their overall score reduced by 50 or 200 points, depending on their situation. This means they may now find it more difficult to receive an ITA unless they strengthen their profiles in other areas such as language skills, education, and work experience.
For Candidates Without Job Offers
Candidates without job offers may benefit from this change. Since their CRS scores remain the same while others in the pool experience a drop, they may have a better chance of receiving an ITA in upcoming draws.
Illustration of the Impact
Consider two fictitious Express Entry candidates, Andrew and Anita, both applying through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
- Before the Change:
- Andrew: 540 CRS points (including 50 points for a job offer)
- Anita: 500 CRS points
- After the Change:
- Andrew: 490 CRS points (losing the 50 job offer points)
- Anita: 500 CRS points (unchanged)
If a future CEC draw has a cut-off score of 495, Anita will receive an ITA while Andrew will not.
Changes for Physicians
The Ministerial Instructions also removed a special provision for physicians that previously allowed job offers lasting under one year to qualify as arranged employment if issued by a provincial government or healthcare-related agency. This provision is no longer in effect.
Predictions for Future Express Entry Draws
With job offer points no longer contributing to CRS scores, future Express Entry draws may see lower cut-off thresholds, benefiting candidates with strong human capital factors such as work experience, education, and language proficiency. However, provincial nominee programs (PNPs) continue to be a viable option, as receiving a PNP nomination adds 600 CRS points, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
How Candidates Can Improve Their Chances
To stay competitive in Express Entry, candidates should focus on:
- Improving Language Scores: Achieving higher IELTS or TEF scores can significantly increase CRS points.
- Gaining Additional Work Experience: Particularly in Canada, as it is highly valued in the CRS system.
- Pursuing Further Education: Higher education credentials can contribute additional points.
- Exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): PNP nominations remain one of the strongest pathways to permanent residence.
Conclusion
The removal of LMIA-based job offer CRS points marks a significant shift in Canada’s immigration landscape. While it presents challenges for some candidates, it creates new opportunities for those with strong skills and qualifications. As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies and combat fraud, candidates must adjust their strategies to maximize their CRS scores.
