Canada removes extra CRS points for job offers in Express Entry
Express Entry Updates
Starting March 25, 2025, Express Entry candidates will no longer receive additional points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for having a valid job offer, even if that offer includes a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Until now, candidates with job offers could earn an extra 50 or 200 points, depending on the position. These additional points often boosted their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. However, under the new system, all extra job-offer points are removed from CRS calculations.
This change affects all current candidates in the Express Entry pool but not those who have already received an ITA or submitted their permanent residence application.
Impact on Candidates with Job Offers
Candidates who previously benefited from job-offer points will notice a drop in their CRS scores. Since the system automatically recalculates scores, those who once earned an extra 50 or 200 points will now lose them.
As a result, their overall ranking in the Express Entry pool will decrease, making it harder to receive an ITA in future draws. This change may also push some candidates to improve other score factors such as language test results, education, or provincial nomination.
Impact on Candidates Without Job Offers
This policy shift brings positive news for candidates without a job offer. Since their scores remain unchanged, they will move up in the ranking as others lose points. Consequently, candidates relying solely on their education, language skills, and experience now have a better chance of receiving an ITA.
In short, this update levels the playing field and makes the process more merit-based rather than dependent on employer sponsorship.
Changes for Physicians
IRCC also made an important adjustment for healthcare professionals. Previously, job offers from public sector employers such as hospitals or health authorities sometimes counted for less than one year. This restriction often made it difficult for physicians to claim valid job-offer points.
Now, that rule has been completely removed. Physicians working under government contracts or public healthcare agencies will no longer face this limitation, making their work experience more fairly assessed under Express Entry.
How the CRS System Works
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is Canada’s point-based framework for ranking Express Entry candidates. Each applicant receives a score based on several factors, including:
- Age
- Education level
- Language proficiency (English or French)
- Work experience (both Canadian and foreign)
Candidates can also earn additional points for factors such as:
- Strong French language ability
- Post-secondary education in Canada
- Having a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- A provincial nomination (worth 600 points)
During regular draws, IRCC invites the highest-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residence. Therefore, maintaining a competitive CRS score is crucial for selection.
Why Canada Made This Change
The Canadian government introduced this update to combat misuse of the job-offer system and promote integrity within Express Entry. Over time, authorities noticed a growing number of cases where applicants were paying for fake or misleading job offers tied to LMIA applications.
By removing these bonus points, IRCC aims to reduce fraud, discourage unethical practices, and make the system fairer for genuine candidates.
Moreover, this change ensures that invitations are based more on skills, experience, and language proficiency — the qualities Canada values most in its economic immigration system.
What Candidates Should Do Next
If you’ve lost CRS points due to this change, don’t panic. You can still improve your score by:
- Retaking your language test to achieve a higher CLB level.
- Completing another educational credential evaluation (ECA) if applicable.
- Gaining additional work experience in Canada or abroad.
- Applying for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which adds 600 points to your CRS score.
For those without job offers, this update may open new opportunities to qualify in upcoming Express Entry draws.
Conclusion
The March 2025 Express Entry update marks a major shift in how Canada assesses immigration candidates. By removing extra CRS points for job offers, IRCC is prioritizing fairness, transparency, and skill-based selection.
Although this change may lower some candidates’ scores, it ultimately strengthens the system by rewarding genuine qualifications over purchased or temporary job offers. Candidates should review their current profiles, improve where possible, and stay informed about future immigration program updates.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
