As of March 25, 2025, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made a pivotal update to its Express Entry system. In a sweeping policy change, Express Entry candidates will no longer receive bonus Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for valid job offers. Previously, candidates could gain up to 200 points for senior management roles and 50 points for other skilled positions. This decision has the potential to reshape the pathways to permanent residency (PR) for thousands of aspiring immigrants.
Detailed Breakdown of the New Changes
1. Removal of Bonus Points for Job Offers
For years, a significant advantage of the Express Entry system was the additional CRS points awarded to candidates with arranged employment. These points often made the difference between receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR and falling below the cut-off score. With the removal of these points, every candidate will now have to rely solely on their core attributes such as:
- Language proficiency
- Educational credentials
- Canadian work experience
- Age and adaptability factors
This shift is aimed at leveling the playing field and ensuring that applicants with strong personal credentials are prioritized.
2. Immediate Impact on Current and Future Applicants
The change is retroactive and affects both:
- Existing candidates in the Express Entry pool, whose CRS scores may drop significantly once the system updates.
- New applicants, who will no longer be able to leverage job offer points as a shortcut to boost their CRS score.
IRCC advises all candidates to wait a few days for their updated scores. If discrepancies persist beyond a week, applicants should follow the official guidance provided by IRCC.
3. Rationale Behind the Policy Shift
IRCC’s decision appears to be influenced by several key factors:
- Prioritizing Human Capital: By removing job offer points, IRCC is shifting the focus to applicants with robust language skills, advanced education, and significant work experience in Canada. This approach is intended to select candidates who are likely to integrate more effectively into the Canadian labor market.
- Curbing Fraud and Misrepresentation: The bonus points for job offers had, in some cases, encouraged fraudulent practices or exploitation of grey areas within the system. This change could reduce the risk of inauthentic job offers, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated more fairly.
- Adapting to Economic Realities: The Canadian labor market is dynamic, and IRCC may be recalibrating its selection criteria to better reflect current economic needs. With a focus on genuine talent and skills, the new system aims to address long-term workforce challenges.
4. What Stays the Same?
While the bonus points have been removed, job offers still hold value:
- Eligibility Criteria: For programs such as the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), a valid job offer remains a requirement to qualify. Candidates must continue to include their job offer details in their profiles.
- Status of Already Issued ITAs: Applicants who have already received an ITA or have submitted their PR applications retain the points they earned under the previous system.
Adapting to the New Express Entry Landscape
Given this significant change, candidates must recalibrate their immigration strategies. Here are some actionable tips:
- Focus on Enhancing Language Skills: High scores in English or French tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF can now play a more decisive role in your CRS score.
- Invest in Education: Pursuing additional qualifications, especially from Canadian institutions, can provide a substantial boost through education-related points.
- Acquire Canadian Work Experience: Gaining experience in Canada through work permits can significantly improve your profile. Canadian work experience is a major factor in the CRS calculation.
- Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): A provincial nomination still offers a massive 600-point boost. Investigate which province aligns best with your skills and background.
- Optimize Spousal Credentials: If applicable, include your spouse’s language proficiency and education to add extra points to your overall score.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating the evolving landscape of Canadian immigration can be complex. ICC Immigration is committed to helping you explore the best pathways to permanent residency. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Our services include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Whether via Express Entry, PNPs, or other immigration pathways, we ensure your application is processed efficiently.
- Work and Study Permits: We help you secure temporary permits that pave the way for your long-term immigration goals.
- Family Sponsorships: We provide support in reuniting families under Canada’s sponsorship programs.
- Expert Legal Advice: Our legal experts ensure that your application meets all current immigration regulations and is positioned for success.
By choosing ICC Immigration, you can avoid the uncertainties associated with other pathways and focus on a secure, well-planned route to Canadian PR.
Final Thoughts
The removal of CRS points for job offers marks a new era for Canada’s Express Entry system. Although this change may initially seem challenging, it is also an opportunity for candidates to strengthen their profiles and showcase their true potential. With the right preparation and expert guidance from ICC Immigration, you can navigate these changes confidently and continue your journey toward permanent residency in Canada.
Stay informed: Regularly check IRCC updates and adjust your strategy as needed. Contact ICC Immigration today for personalized support and take the next step toward a brighter future in Canada.