On This Page, You Will Find:
- What changed with job offers and CRS points in Express Entry
- Why Canada removed CRS points for LMIA-backed job offers
- How a job offer still helps under FSWP, FSTP, and PNP
- What this means for Express Entry candidates and employers
- Tips to strengthen your profile after the March 2025 update
How A Job Offer Can Still Help Your Canada Immigration Application
On March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) officially removed Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers in the Express Entry system.
This means candidates no longer receive:
- 200 points for job offers in NOC Major Group 00 (senior management)
- 50 points for other skilled job offers under TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3
Despite the loss of CRS points, job offers remain highly valuable under several key immigration programs.
Why Did Canada Remove CRS Points for Job Offers?
In December 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced that CRS points for job offers backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) would be removed.
The reason: to prevent fraud and abuse. Some applicants were paying for fake job offers to boost their Express Entry score.
The updated system now places more weight on genuine human capital factors – such as education, language proficiency, and real work experience – rather than purchased advantages.
How a Job Offer Still Supports Your Immigration Journey
Even though CRS points for job offers have been removed, a valid job offer continues to be an essential part of Canada’s immigration system. Here’s how it can still help:
1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
A job offer directly contributes to the FSWP selection grid, which requires candidates to score at least 67 out of 100 points based on factors like age, education, experience, and adaptability.
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add up to 10 points to your FSWP score.
- This can be crucial if you’re slightly below the required threshold.
- The offer must usually be supported by a positive LMIA and be for full-time, continuous employment for at least one year.
Even without CRS points, a job offer could be the difference between qualifying or not under this program.
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
If you’re applying under the FSTP, a valid job offer is still a core requirement unless you already have a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority.
- You need a job offer for at least one year of full-time work, or
- A certificate showing you’re licensed to practice your trade in a province or territory.
In this case, a job offer remains a gateway to applying – it’s not just beneficial, it’s essential.
3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Many provinces and territories prioritize candidates with job offers, especially in high-demand occupations or rural areas.
- Some PNP streams require a job offer to apply.
- Others give preference or additional scoring for applicants who have one.
- If nominated, you gain 600 CRS points, nearly guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Express Entry.
In short, while job offers no longer earn CRS points directly, they remain key to securing a PNP nomination, which offers the most significant point boost available.
4. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
A valid job offer supported by a positive LMIA allows you to apply for a temporary work permit under the TFWP.
- This permits you to live and work in Canada legally.
- After gaining Canadian work experience, you may become eligible for Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry or for a PNP.
- Many successful permanent residents first arrived in Canada on a work permit.
A job offer remains a critical stepping stone to long-term immigration, even outside Express Entry.
What This Means for Express Entry Candidates
✔️ Your CRS score may drop
If your profile included 50 or 200 points from a job offer, those will be removed. It may take a few days after March 25, 2025 for your score to update.
✔️ You still qualify to stay in the pool
Losing job offer points doesn’t remove your eligibility. You remain in the Express Entry pool and can still be selected in general or category-based draws.
✔️ You need to focus on other CRS factors
To stay competitive, work on improving your language test scores, adding work experience, or getting Canadian education credentials.
✔️ PNPs become more important
A nomination gives you 600 points and a direct pathway to permanent residence. Explore PNP streams in provinces where your skills are in demand.
What This Means for Employers
✔️ Job offers no longer help candidates’ CRS scores
LMIA-backed offers don’t increase CRS rankings anymore. Candidates may need more support through other programs.
✔️ PNPs and TFWP are now the key support tools
Employers can help candidates by hiring through the TFWP or supporting applications under a relevant PNP stream.
✔️ Employer credibility matters more
IRCC will likely monitor employer activity more closely. Ensure all job offers are genuine and backed by proper documentation.
✔️ Stronger recruitment strategies are essential
With job offer points removed, candidates will prioritize employers offering fair wages, training, and long-term career potential.
Moving Forward: Strengthen Your Immigration Application
If you’re affected by the March 25 change:
- Recalculate your CRS score using updated criteria
- Focus on improving language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF)
- Pursue credential assessments to maximize education points
- Gain Canadian experience if possible
- Research PNPs aligned with your occupation
- Consider Global Talent Stream work permits for faster processing
FAQ
Can I still immigrate to Canada with a job offer?
Yes. A job offer still supports eligibility under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and many Provincial Nominee Program streams.
Why were CRS points for job offers removed?
Canada removed job offer points to reduce fraud and prevent misuse of the system. This change ensures that only genuine qualifications and experience affect CRS scores.
How will this affect my Express Entry profile?
If you had 50 or 200 CRS points from a job offer, those will be removed after March 25, 2025. Your profile remains valid, but your CRS score will be lower.
Are there still benefits to having a job offer?
Absolutely. A job offer helps meet eligibility for multiple programs and can improve your chances in PNP streams – which can still earn you 600 points.
What should I do if my CRS score drops?
Focus on boosting core CRS areas: language proficiency, education, and experience. Also, explore PNPs that suit your job and location preferences for extra points.
