Canada: Ends Extra CRS Points for LMIA-Supported Job Offers in Express Entry

Key Points  

• Starting in Spring 2025, candidates in Canada’s Express Entry program will no longer receive extra CRS points for job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment 

Removal of Express Entry Points for Job Offer 

Canada has announced that candidates of the Express Entry (EE) program will no longer earn extra Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This measure will take effect in the Spring of 2025.

Express Entry is used to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers, according to the Canadian government.   

Jobs listed under the LMIA list can add 50-200 CRS points. This boost enhances the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.

This temporary measure, effective spring 2025, aims to reduce fraud. It eliminates the incentive to buy or sell labor market impact assessments illegally. The government aims to enhance candidates’ chances of being selected for permanent residency in Canada.

Once implemented, these changes will impact candidates pursuing permanent residence through the Express Entry system, including those working temporarily in Canada. Candidates with an invitation to apply or an application in progress will remain unaffected. The change will apply to all candidates with job offers in the pool and new entrants. 

Without additional LMIA-based points, candidates who relied on them may find it more challenging to qualify for permanent residence. This is especially true for those lacking Canadian education, French language skills, or provincial nominations.