Canada’s Express Entry System: Major Changes in 2025
The Express Entry system is experiencing a significant shift in 2025, with the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cutoff expected to drop below 500. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is adjusting policies to reshape the immigration landscape, with one of the biggest changes being the removal of LMIA-backed job offer points. This will make it easier for candidates without job offers to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada.
Latest Express Entry Draws: A Downward Trend
Recent Express Entry draws have shown a steady decline in CRS cutoff scores for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
- February 5, 2025 (CEC): 4,000 invitations | CRS cutoff: 521
- January 23, 2025 (CEC): 4,000 invitations | CRS cutoff: 527
- January 8, 2025 (CEC): 1,350 invitations | CRS cutoff: 542
This trend suggests that the CRS score required for Express Entry draws is gradually declining, potentially opening doors for thousands of skilled workers who previously did not qualify due to high cutoff scores.
Why the CRS Cutoff is Expected to Drop Below 500
One of the primary reasons behind the expected drop in CRS scores is the removal of additional points for LMIA-backed job offers. Previously, candidates with a valid job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) could receive an additional 50 to 200 CRS points, significantly boosting their rankings. However, IRCC announced in late 2024 that these points would be removed to prevent fraudulent job offers and ensure a fair selection process.
How This Change Affects the Express Entry Pool:
- Reduced CRS Scores: Candidates who relied on LMIA-backed job offers will lose points, lowering the overall CRS distribution.
- More Opportunities for High-Scoring Applicants Without Job Offers: Skilled workers with strong language proficiency, education, and work experience will have better chances.
- Level Playing Field: Candidates will need to focus on core human capital factors rather than job offers.
When Will CRS Drop Below 500?
Based on current trends, immigration experts predict that the CRS cutoff may dip below 500 by mid to late 2025. The removal of LMIA-backed job offer points is expected to impact scores as early as spring 2025, with some candidates losing up to 50 CRS points or more.
Optimistic Scenario:
- CRS drops below 500 by early summer 2025, depending on the size and frequency of draws.
- IRCC maintains large-scale CEC draws to accommodate policy changes.
Conservative Estimate:
- CRS drops below 500 by late summer or fall 2025, as the Express Entry pool stabilizes under the new policy.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating these changes can be challenging, but ICC Immigration is here to help you maximize your chances of receiving an ITA. Our experienced team offers expert guidance to ensure you take the best route to permanent residency.
Our Services Include:
✅ Permanent Residency Applications: We assist with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other PR pathways to streamline your application. ✅ Work Permits and Study Permits: Gain valuable Canadian experience that strengthens your Express Entry profile. ✅ Family Sponsorship: If you have family in Canada, we help you reunite with them through family sponsorship programs. ✅ Expert Legal Advice: Our team ensures your application meets current immigration policies and maximizes your CRS score.
Strategic Steps to Improve Your Express Entry Profile
With LMIA-backed job offers no longer contributing to CRS scores, applicants should focus on strengthening other factors:
1️⃣ Improve Language Scores: Higher IELTS or CELPIP scores can significantly boost CRS points.
2️⃣ Gain More Work Experience: More skilled work experience in Canada or abroad can enhance your score.
3️⃣ Obtain a Provincial Nomination (PNP): Many PNPs award 600 CRS points, practically guaranteeing an ITA.
4️⃣ Pursue Further Education: Completing a Canadian diploma, degree, or certificate can boost CRS scores.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Immigration Journey
With Express Entry policies evolving, staying informed and proactive is crucial. If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, now is the perfect time to strengthen your profile. The CRS cutoff is expected to drop below 500, making 2025 one of the best years to apply for PR.
📢 Don’t wait! Contact ICC Immigration today for expert guidance on securing your future in Canada.
Book a Consultation Now