On This Page, You Will Find:
- A detailed explanation of the removal of CRS points for LMIA-backed job offers in Canada Express Entry
- Implications for candidates relying on job offers to secure Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
- Key impacts on employers hiring foreign workers under LMIA-supported offers
- Changes to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and its scoring criteria
- Strategies for candidates and employers to adapt to this policy shift
Canada Removes Express Entry Points for a Job Offer
As of March 25, 2025, Canada has officially removed Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-backed job offers in the Express Entry system.
This change affects:
- 200 points for job offers in National Occupation Classification (NOC) Major Group 00 (senior management positions)
- 50 points for all other eligible skilled job offers under TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3
It marks a major shift in immigration policy aimed at tackling fraud, increasing fairness, and refocusing the system on human capital factors like education, work experience, and language ability.
Why Was This Change Made?
The removal follows a December 18, 2024 announcement by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, who said Canada would eliminate CRS points for job offers backed by an LMIA. The goal is to reduce abuse and exploitation, where unscrupulous agents were selling LMIA-backed job offers for high prices, often without legitimate employment.
This decision reinforces the importance of genuine qualifications and intent in Canada’s skilled immigration programs.
What This Means for Express Entry Candidates
1. Job Offers No Longer Boost CRS Scores
Candidates who previously relied on 50 or 200 CRS points from an LMIA-backed job offer will no longer benefit. Profiles must now stand on age, education, language ability, and experience.
2. Harder to Reach CRS Cut-Offs
Without job offer points, some candidates may fall short of the required score for an Invitation to Apply (ITA), especially in general Express Entry draws.
3. Higher Value of Provincial Nominations
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which offers 600 CRS points, becomes even more important. Candidates should consider applying through PNP streams aligned with their occupations and skills.
4. Focus on Fraud Prevention
By removing incentives tied to job offers, Canada aims to reduce manipulation of the system and protect candidates from being exploited.
What This Means for Canadian Employers
1. Less Appeal for LMIA-Based Hiring
LMIA-supported job offers may become less attractive to foreign workers since they no longer increase CRS scores.
2. Higher Standards and Scrutiny
Employers can expect increased monitoring by IRCC. Proper documentation and legitimate job offers will be essential.
3. Shift to Other Pathways
Employers may need to support candidates through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or PNP streams to help them obtain permanent residency.
4. Need for Stronger Employer Branding
To attract global talent, employers must offer competitive compensation, training, and a clear path to long-term career development.
How the CRS System Is Changing
1. Greater Emphasis on Core Factors
Candidates must now improve scores through:
- Language testing (IELTS, CELPIP)
- Canadian or foreign work experience
- Canadian education or credential recognition
2. Provincial Nomination Gains Weight
With LMIA-backed offers no longer boosting CRS scores, PNPs are now the only significant point advantage, offering a direct path to an ITA.
3. More Competitive Draws
With inflated scores removed, the pool may become more balanced, but overall CRS cut-offs could rise in the short term.
4. Category-Based Selection
The move supports IRCC’s trend of issuing ITAs based on occupational categories, such as healthcare, trades, or STEM, rather than job offers alone.
5. Reduced Fraud
By eliminating the incentive to purchase job offers, the integrity of Express Entry is expected to improve, protecting both candidates and employers.
What Candidates Should Do Now
- Review your CRS score after March 25, 2025
- Don’t panic if your score is lower — IRCC notes it may take a few days to update
- Focus on language test preparation, credential assessments, or gaining Canadian experience
- Explore PNP options in provinces aligned with your occupation
- Consider short-term work permits under the Global Talent Stream
FAQ
Why is Canada removing CRS points for LMIA-backed job offers?
Canada is removing these points to address fraud and exploitation. Some candidates paid large sums for fake job offers. The change helps ensure that CRS scores reflect genuine skills and not purchased advantages.
When will the change to CRS points take effect?
The change took effect on March 25, 2025. Candidates no longer receive CRS points for LMIA-backed job offers. IRCC has asked candidates to wait a few days for scores to update.
How will this change impact candidates’ CRS scores?
Candidates who had 50 or 200 CRS points from a job offer will lose them. This may make it harder to qualify in future Express Entry draws. Improving other CRS factors is now essential.
What alternative pathways can employers use to hire foreign workers?
Employers can support candidates through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) or use the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). The Global Talent Stream also allows faster processing for tech and high-demand roles.
How does this affect the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
PNPs now play a bigger role. They offer 600 CRS points and remain a top way to secure permanent residency. Candidates and employers may rely more on PNPs moving forward.
