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Canada has removed extra CRS points for valid job offers in Express Entry, effective March 25, 2025. This change reshapes candidate rankings, making ITAs more competitive. Learn how it affects your immigration chances and adapt to the new rules.
Canada has made a significant change to its Express Entry system, eliminating additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for candidates with valid job offers.
Effective March 25, 2025, candidates will no longer receive 50 or 200 extra CRS points for arranged employment, including those backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
This change impacts all Express Entry applicants who previously relied on job offers to boost their CRS scores. However, those who have already received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or have permanent residence (PR) applications in progress remain unaffected.
Why Did Canada Remove CRS Points for Job Offers?
The decision to eliminate job offer points follows concerns over fraudulent practices, including the illegal purchase of LMIAs. Former Immigration Minister Marc Miller initially proposed this change in December 2024, stating that it would help protect the integrity of Canada’s immigration system and reduce immigration fraud.
How This Change Affects Express Entry Candidates
Lower CRS Scores for Candidates with Job Offers: Those who previously benefited from 50 or 200 extra CRS points will see their scores drop accordingly.
Better Chances for Other Candidates: With scores across the pool adjusting, candidates without job offers may find it easier to receive an ITA.
Unchanged Eligibility for Other Programs: A valid job offer remains a requirement for some immigration programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and specific Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Example of the Impact on CRS Scores
Before this policy change, a job offer could boost a candidate’s CRS score by 50 or 200 points, significantly enhancing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Now, those points are gone.
Temporary Measure, Long-Term Uncertainty
IRCC has labeled this a “temporary measure” but has not provided a timeline for its reversal. The December 23, 2024, press release indicated a move to curb fraudulent LMIA practices. While the majority of the qualifying criteria for arranged employment remain in the Ministerial Instructions, the points awarding section has been removed.
Important Notes for Express Entry Candidates
• Existing ITAs and applications in progress are unaffected.
• IRCC advises candidates to wait a week before contacting them about incorrect CRS scores, as updates may take a few days.
• Valid job offers remain relevant for eligibility in the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and some Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams.
Physician Job Offer Criteria Also Altered
Additionally, the Ministerial Instructions have removed a section that expanded qualifying arranged employment for physicians. Previously, offers of less than one year were valid if they came from specific government or healthcare organizations. This change narrows the scope of qualifying offers for medical professionals.
Understanding the CRS: The Heart of Express Entry
The Comprehensive Ranking System evaluates Express Entry candidates based on various factors, including:
• Age
• Education
• Language proficiency (English and/or French)
• Work experience
• Additional factors such as Canadian education, French skills, or having a sibling in Canada
The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular Express Entry draws.
Final Thoughts
This major policy shift reshapes Express Entry by leveling the playing field for candidates who do not have job offers. As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies, applicants must stay informed and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/canada-express-entry-crs-job-offer-points-removed/
