Canada’s immigration system is one of the most sought-after pathways for skilled workers around the world. The Express Entry system, which is designed to manage applications for three of Canada’s main economic immigration programs — the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class — plays a pivotal role in determining who gets the opportunity to become a Canadian permanent resident.
In recent developments, Canada has announced a significant change to the Express Entry system: Starting on March 25, 2025, applicants will no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for having a valid job offer, including those supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This change is expected to affect thousands of potential candidates currently in the Express Entry pool and those considering applying for Canadian permanent residency.
The Removal of Bonus CRS Points: Key Changes
Under the previous rules, candidates with a valid job offer were awarded bonus CRS points — 50 points for certain job offers and 200 points for others, depending on the nature of the offer. These additional points played a crucial role in helping applicants achieve a competitive CRS score, often giving them a significant advantage when it came to receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
However, with the latest update, this specific provision has been removed. The CRS score of any candidate who previously earned bonus points for a valid job offer will now be adjusted accordingly, resulting in a lower score for many applicants. This means that candidates with job offers will have a reduced chance of being invited to apply for permanent residency, as their CRS score will no longer reflect the extra points they once received.
How Does This Affect Express Entry Candidates?
The implications of this change are far-reaching, especially for candidates who were relying on the additional points to boost their score. Let’s break down the potential impact:
- Candidates with Job Offers: If you are an Express Entry candidate who had a valid job offer, your CRS score would have included additional points based on that offer. These points have now been removed, meaning your chances of receiving an ITA may be lower, depending on your new score.
- Candidates Without Job Offers: On the flip side, candidates who do not have a valid job offer may see their chances of being invited to apply increase. With the points for job offers being eliminated, the competition in the Express Entry pool will be less intense for those without an arranged employment offer. Essentially, their chances of securing an ITA improve as others lose valuable points.
- Impact on Other Pathways: This change only affects the CRS system for Express Entry. Job offers still play an important role in eligibility for programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Therefore, a valid job offer remains relevant for certain eligibility requirements, but it no longer contributes to your CRS score.
Why Did Canada Make This Change?
The Canadian government’s decision to remove bonus points for arranged employment is largely seen as a step towards eliminating potential exploitation and strengthening the integrity of the immigration system. Previously, there were concerns about candidates “purchasing” Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), which are used to verify that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for a particular job. This practice led to fears of fraud and manipulation, undermining the fairness of the Express Entry system.
By removing the bonus points for a job offer, Canada aims to reduce incentives for candidates to engage in such fraudulent practices. The government’s focus is now on ensuring that the Express Entry system remains transparent and merit-based, giving all eligible candidates a fair shot at immigration.
Adjusting to the New System
While this change may feel like a setback for some, it’s important to remember that the overall goal of the Express Entry system is to select the best candidates based on their skills and qualifications. Although a valid job offer no longer results in bonus points, it remains an important factor for those aiming to meet the eligibility criteria for various Canadian immigration programs.
Moreover, candidates still have plenty of opportunities to increase their CRS scores. Points can be earned for factors like age, language proficiency, education, and work experience. It’s crucial for applicants to focus on enhancing their profiles in these areas to remain competitive in the Express Entry pool.
What Can You Do Now?
If you’re currently in the Express Entry pool and have lost points due to this change, you should begin by assessing your updated CRS score. If necessary, you can take steps to improve your profile. Some of the most effective strategies include:
- Improving Language Proficiency: A high score on language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) can add valuable points to your CRS score.
- Education and Certifications: Gaining additional educational qualifications or certifications can also help boost your points.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many provinces have their own nomination programs that award additional CRS points. If you’re eligible, a provincial nomination could significantly increase your chances of getting an ITA.
- Networking for Job Offers: Even though a valid job offer no longer adds CRS points, having one can still increase your chances of being eligible for certain immigration streams, especially PNPs.
Conclusion
The removal of bonus CRS points for arranged employment represents a shift in Canada’s immigration policies aimed at increasing fairness and reducing the potential for abuse within the system. While this change may make it more challenging for some applicants to secure an ITA, it also opens up new opportunities for others. As the Canadian immigration landscape continues to evolve, staying informed and adapting your strategy is crucial to navigating the Express Entry system successfully.
At Bright Path Immigration & Recruitment Services, we’re here to help guide you through these changes and ensure that your application is as competitive as possible. Contact us today to learn more about how to improve your Express Entry profile and increase your chances of immigrating to Canada.
