On December 17, Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a pivotal change to the Express Entry system: candidates will no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This update is set to significantly reshape the landscape of Canadian immigration for aspiring permanent residents.
What Does the Change Mean for Express Entry Candidates?
Previously, candidates with a valid LMIA-based job offer could gain an additional 50 to 200 CRS points, depending on the job’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) level. These extra points provided a crucial advantage, often determining who received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR).
With this new change, candidates will no longer benefit from these extra points. Instead, their CRS scores will now solely reflect other factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
Potential Effects on CRS Scores and ITAs
The removal of LMIA-based job offer points is expected to:
- Lower CRS Scores for Candidates with Job Offers: For instance, a candidate with a score of 530, including 50 points for a job offer, will see their score drop to 480.
- Broaden Opportunities for Candidates Without Job Offers: As the CRS scores of those with job offers decrease, candidates without arranged employment will likely find themselves in a more competitive position for ITAs.
- Impact Express Entry Draw Cut-Off Scores: Overall, CRS cut-off scores for draws may decrease, reflecting the lowered scores of candidates who previously relied on job offer points.
Key Uncertainties
Minister Miller has not clarified when these changes will take effect or if they will affect ongoing Express Entry applications. It remains unclear whether IRCC will hold non-Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws before implementing the change.
How Candidates Can Strengthen Their CRS Scores
Candidates can counterbalance this shift by optimizing other factors in their CRS profiles. Here are actionable steps:
- Enhance Language Proficiency: Achieving higher Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels can significantly boost CRS points. For instance, improving from CLB 6 to CLB 9 can add over 60 points.
- Demonstrate Bilingual Proficiency: Candidates fluent in both English and French can gain up to 50 additional points.
- Secure Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs): Ensure all foreign degrees are assessed to maximize education-related CRS points.
- Pursue Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): A nomination through a PNP can add 600 points, effectively guaranteeing an ITA.
- Obtain Canadian Education: A degree from a Canadian institution not only increases education points but also enhances eligibility for certain programs.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Navigate These Changes
Navigating the evolving landscape of Canadian immigration can be complex. ICC Immigration is dedicated to providing tailored solutions to help you achieve your Canadian dream. Here’s how we can assist:
- Comprehensive PR Application Support: Whether through Express Entry, PNPs, or other pathways, we ensure your application is efficient and error-free.
- Temporary Work and Study Permits: Explore opportunities to build your career or education in Canada as a stepping stone to PR.
- Family Reunification Services: We facilitate sponsorship applications, helping you bring loved ones to Canada.
- Expert Legal Guidance: Our experienced team offers personalized advice to help you comply with immigration policies and maximize your chances of success.
By choosing ICC Immigration, you gain a partner committed to your long-term success. Avoid the risks and uncertainties of asylum claims and embrace pathways that offer stability and security.
Take Charge of Your Immigration Journey
While the removal of LMIA-based job offer points presents new challenges, it also levels the playing field, providing opportunities for candidates to shine through other strengths. Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your move, ICC Immigration is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward a secure future in Canada.