What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system used by IRCC to manage applications for three federal immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Targeting professionals with significant skills and experience.

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Focused on individuals with work experience in Canada.

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Designed for skilled tradespeople.

Applicants are assigned CRS scores based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and arranged employment. Those with the highest scores receive ITAs, enabling them to apply for permanent residency.

Current Role of Job Offers in CRS Points

Under the current system, candidates with valid job offers can gain an additional 50 to 200 CRS points, depending on the job’s skill level. This substantial boost has often been a decisive factor for candidates competing for ITAs. The change coming in 2025 will eliminate these bonus points, requiring candidates to rely solely on other factors to bolster their CRS scores.

The Policy Change: What’s Happening in Spring 2025?

IRCC’s new policy will remove job offer points from the CRS calculation. This change will apply to all new and existing candidates in the Express Entry pool. However, individuals who have already received ITAs or submitted their permanent residency applications will not be affected. The announcement reflects IRCC’s commitment to creating a level playing field for all applicants, regardless of their employment status in Canada.

Why is IRCC Making This Change?

The decision to eliminate job offer points stems from several key motivations:

• Fraud Prevention: Addressing fraudulent job offers and ensuring that the system rewards genuine qualifications.

• Fairness: Allowing candidates to compete based on merit rather than relying on arranged employment.

• System Integrity: Reinforcing trust in the Express Entry process by removing potential avenues for abuse.

How Will This Impact Candidates?

The removal of job offer points will have significant implications:

• Candidates with Valid Job Offers: Those relying on arranged employment to boost their CRS scores will need to explore other strategies.

• Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs): Many TFWs who transition to permanent residency through job offers may face new challenges.

• General Applicant Pool: The competition may shift towards applicants with stronger language skills, higher education levels, and extensive work experience.

What Stays the Same?

While this change is substantial, other aspects of the Express Entry system remain unchanged:

• Core CRS Factors: Age, education, language proficiency, and work experience will continue to play pivotal roles.

• Application Process: The steps to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry remain consistent.

Preparing for the Change: Advice for Candidates

To adapt to this policy shift, candidates should:

• Enhance Language Skills: Improving scores in English or French language tests can significantly boost CRS points.

• Gain Canadian Experience: Working in Canada under a valid work permit remains a strong factor for eligibility.

• Invest in Education: Completing higher education, particularly in Canada, can improve CRS scores.

• Seek Professional Guidance: Immigration consultants can provide tailored advice to navigate these changes effectively.

How Just Migrate Now Can Help

Navigating significant changes in immigration policies can be overwhelming, but Just Migrate Now is here to simplify the process. As a trusted immigration consultancy, we offer:

• Personalized CRS Optimization Plans: Our experts assess your profile and provide tailored strategies to maximize your CRS score.

• Language Training Support: Access resources and guidance to improve your English or French proficiency.

• Work Experience and Education Guidance: Insights on how to gain Canadian experience or pursue educational opportunities to enhance your application.

• Ongoing Updates: Stay informed about policy changes and their implications for your immigration goals.

• End-to-End Support: From initial profile assessment to final application submission, we’re with you every step of the way.

With Just Migrate Now, you can confidently navigate these changes and pursue your dream of becoming a permanent resident in Canada.

Broader Implications for Canada’s Immigration System

This change aligns with Canada’s broader immigration goals of attracting highly qualified individuals who can contribute to the economy. By removing job offer points, IRCC ensures that candidates are selected based on comprehensive evaluations of their skills and potential, rather than their ability to secure arranged employment.

Conclusion

The removal of CRS points for job offers marks a significant evolution in Canada’s immigration landscape. While it presents new challenges, it also reinforces fairness and integrity in the selection process. Prospective immigrants are encouraged to adapt their strategies to remain competitive and leverage this opportunity to showcase their skills and qualifications. With thoughtful preparation, guidance from trusted advisors like Just Migrate Now, and a commitment to excellence, you can still achieve your dreams of becoming permanent residents in Canada.