A significant change to the Express Entry system has been announced by the Canadian government. Candidates who have a legitimate job offer will no longer receive extra Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points as of spring 2025. The goal of this modification is to improve equity and lessen dishonest behavior in the immigration system.

The Reason Behind the Change

Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized the purpose of this measure. The incentive to abuse Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) is diminished when job offer points are removed.

LMIAs are frequently used to fictitiously raise applicants' CRS scores. The integrity of the system is compromised by this dishonest activity.

Employers in Canada may require an LMIA in order to hire international labor. It indicates that there isn't a Canadian candidate for the position. Foreign workers can apply for work permits if their LMIA is positive. The government wants to stop the illicit purchase and sale of LMIAs by taking points away from employment offers.

Impact on Express Entry Candidates

The change will apply to all candidates in the Express Entry pool. This includes those currently working temporarily in Canada. However, individuals who have already received invitations to apply (ITA) or submitted permanent residence (PR) applications will not be affected.

The removal of job offer points will impact candidates across various programs under the Express Entry system. These include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program streams will also see this rule applied.

Express Entry Overview

The main immigration program in Canada is called Express Entry. It uses a competitive points-based system to handle applications for permanent residence. Points are awarded to candidates based on their age, education, employment history, and language skills. Additional points are given for things like knowing French, having a sibling in Canada, or completing post-secondary school there.

Candidates can currently earn between 50 and 200 CRS points if they have a genuine employment offer. This frequently determines whether an ITA is granted. The playing field will be leveled after these points are eliminated. It will guarantee that applicants are chosen not by outside influences but by fundamental human capital considerations.

This policy change demonstrates Canada's dedication to upholding an open and effective immigration system. The government is working to draw in highly qualified people while maintaining the integrity of the program. Canada hopes to minimize fraud and improve its immigration system by doing away with job offer points.

FAQS

What happens to applicants who have legitimate job offers and are currently employed in Canada?

All candidates, including those temporarily employed in Canada, will lose their CRS points. Candidates who have already received an invitation to apply for permanent residency, however, will not be impacted.

What impact will this change have on Canadian employers?

Since job offers would no longer raise CRS scores, employers may find it difficult to recruit qualified foreign workers. Alternative immigration routes, like employer-driven Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), may need to be investigated.