As of March 25, 2025, Canada has officially removed Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-backed job offers within the Express Entry immigration system. This significant change, announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller on December 18, 2024, aims to curb fraud and exploitation by eliminating incentives tied to LMIA-supported job offers. These offers have previously been a source of manipulation, with some candidates paying high fees for fraudulent or non-existent job offers.

Why Was This Change Made?

The primary goal of this policy shift is to reduce abuse and exploitation in the immigration process, particularly from unscrupulous agents selling LMIA-backed job offers for inflated prices, often without actual job opportunities behind them. This move reaffirms Canada’s commitment to ensuring that its immigration system is based on genuine skills, qualifications, and intentions.

What Does This Mean for Express Entry Candidates?

1. Job Offers No Longer Boost CRS Scores

Candidates who relied on the 50 or 200 CRS points from an LMIA-backed job offer will no longer benefit from these points. Going forward, profiles will be ranked based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and other core human capital factors.

2. Higher CRS Cut-Offs

With the removal of LMIA-based points, some candidates may struggle to meet the CRS score thresholds in future Express Entry draws, especially for the general pool. The competition may increase as more profiles are assessed based on fundamental qualifications.

3. Increased Importance of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) now offer the most significant advantage, awarding 600 CRS points to candidates nominated by a province or territory. Candidates may want to explore PNP streams aligned with their occupations to maximize their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

4. Enhanced Fraud Prevention

The elimination of job offer points is designed to reduce manipulation of the system and curb fraudulent practices. This will protect candidates from being exploited by unscrupulous agents or employers and ensures that only those with genuine qualifications are rewarded in the Express Entry system.

What Does This Mean for Canadian Employers?

1. LMIA-Based Hiring Less Attractive

With no CRS boost for LMIA-backed job offers, foreign workers may find these offers less appealing. Employers may need to adjust their recruitment strategies to attract skilled talent, as the LMIA route no longer offers the same advantages.

2. Increased Scrutiny and Compliance

Employers can expect more oversight from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). To ensure that job offers are legitimate, employers will need to maintain robust documentation and be prepared for scrutiny by IRCC.

3. Alternative Pathways for Hiring

Employers can consider other options, such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), to support foreign workers in obtaining permanent residency. Additionally, the Global Talent Stream offers faster processing for high-demand occupations, particularly in tech.

4. Employer Branding Becomes Crucial

To attract top global talent, employers will need to focus on offering competitive compensation, career development opportunities, and a clear path to long-term employment. A strong employer brand can make a difference in drawing in skilled professionals without relying on LMIA-backed job offers.

How the CRS System is Changing:

1. Greater Focus on Core Factors

Candidates will now need to strengthen their CRS score through:

  • Language proficiency (IELTS, CELPIP)

  • Canadian or foreign work experience

  • Canadian education or credential recognition

2. Provincial Nominee Programs Gain Importance

With LMIA points no longer a factor, PNPs are increasingly crucial, offering a clear route to securing an ITA. Candidates with provincial nominations will continue to enjoy a significant advantage in the CRS system.

3. More Competitive Express Entry Draws

While the removal of LMIA-based points will level the playing field, CRS cut-offs may rise in the short term as profiles are now evaluated based on core factors alone. This could make it more challenging for some candidates to qualify for an ITA.

4. Category-Based Selection Becoming More Common

IRCC’s trend towards issuing ITAs based on specific occupational categories, such as healthcare, trades, or STEM, will continue. This is aimed at selecting candidates based on their skills and the needs of Canada’s economy, rather than just job offers.

5. Reduction in Fraud

The removal of incentives for purchasing LMIA-backed job offers should reduce instances of fraud within the system, ensuring that candidates are evaluated based on their true qualifications and capabilities.

What Candidates Should Do Now:

  • Review CRS Scores: After March 25, 2025, review your CRS score and make adjustments. IRCC has advised candidates to wait a few days for scores to be updated.

  • Focus on Core Factors: If your CRS score has decreased, focus on improving other areas such as language proficiency, education, and work experience.

  • Explore PNP Options: Given the increased value of PNPs, consider applying to provincial streams aligned with your skills and occupation.

  • Consider Work Permits: Explore short-term work permits, such as those available through the Global Talent Stream, to gain Canadian work experience.

FAQ

Why is Canada removing CRS points for LMIA-backed job offers?

This decision aims to reduce fraud and exploitation within the immigration system, particularly the sale of fake or inflated job offers. The change ensures that CRS scores reflect genuine skills, qualifications, and experience.

When does the change to CRS points take effect?

The change took effect on March 25, 2025. Candidates who previously benefited from job offer points will no longer receive them.

How will this affect my CRS score?

Candidates who had 50 or 200 CRS points from LMIA-backed job offers will lose those points. It may be more challenging to qualify for an ITA, and candidates will need to strengthen other areas of their profile to remain competitive.

What are alternative pathways for employers to hire foreign workers?

Employers can turn to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or the Global Talent Stream to hire foreign workers and support them in obtaining permanent residency.

How does this impact the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

PNPs have become more important since LMIA-backed job offers no longer provide a CRS advantage. PNPs offer 600 CRS points, which remain one of the most reliable ways for candidates to receive an ITA and secure permanent residency.