Canada to Enhance Fairness in Express Entry by Removing LMIA Based Job Offer Points
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As per the latest update to IRCC Canada's Express Entry System, applicants will soon no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for having a job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Formerly candidates could gain an extra 50 or 200 CRS points for LMIA based job offers which often played a decisive role in securing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR in Canada. This change was announced by Canada’s Immigration Minister Mark Miller on December 17, 2024 that aims to strengthen the integrity of the immigration system and reduce the risk of fraud.
Minister Miller explained that the measure is intended to remove the incentive for candidates to pursue LMIAs, fostering a more equitable system for all applicants. Minister Miller states - “By enhancing fairness and integrity. We are creating a level playing field for talented individuals seeking to contribute to Canada's economy and society”
*The exact implementation date is yet to be confirmed.
Quick Canada Immigration Updates:
- Express Entry Pool Updates As of December 2024
- IRCC Issues 800 ITAs in December’s 2nd Express Entry Draw
- New Canada Immigration Fee Effective From December 1
Understanding the CRS Score and The Upcoming Change
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores Express Entry candidates out of 1200 points based on factors such as:
- Age
- Education
- Language Proficiency
- Work Experience
- Core Human Capital Factors (600 points)
- Having a sibling in Canada
- French Language skills
- Canadian Education Credentials
- Arranged Employment
- Provincial Nominations
The upcoming policy change will eliminate the additional 50 or 200 points previously awarded for Arranged Employment in the Comprehensive Rankings System (CRS).
This is expected to have the most impact on candidates with job offers in NOC TEER categories particularly those in executive level roles classified under TEER 0.
While some draws in 2024 had cut off scores above 500, this change may shift the dynamics of Express Entry System, particularly in general and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws.
Aligning With Broader Canadian Immigration Goals
The recent update aligns with Canada's broader efforts to ensure transparency and fairness across its immigration programs. Recent adjustments to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) also reflects this commitment. The key changes to the TFWP are as follows:
- Suspension of LMIA processing for low-wage stream roles (September 2024)
- Increased wage requirements for high wage stream roles (November 2024) - Workers in this stream must now earn 20% above the median wage for their occupation and region
These reforms support Canada's immigration levels plan, which includes a target of 82,000 net new TFWP work permits by 2025.
Also Explore: Canada Immigration Plan 2025: Boost or Barrier for Express Entry Applicants?
Time is Right to Immigrate to Canada
By removing LMIA based points, the Canadian government is taking meaningful steps to reduce potential misuse and ensure that Express Entry rewards genuine talent and qualifications. Candidates can continue to strengthen their Express Entry profiles by focusing on factors like education, language proficiency, and work experience to improve their chances of receiving an ITA.
Canada remains committed to welcoming skilled immigrants and fostering a fair, transparent and efficient immigration system for all.
If you are also looking to start your Express Entry journey, consider seeking assistance from trusted immigration consultants like GetGIS. Our team is here to facilitate all your queries and Canada immigration needs in the most efficient and timely manner.
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