In a major Canada Express Entry Update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the removal of bonus Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for arranged employment. This change, effective March 25, 2025, will impact candidates who previously received additional CRS points for having a valid job offer.
Canada Express Entry Update: What Has Changed?
Previously, Express Entry candidates could earn 50 to 200 additional CRS points for an eligible job offer, depending on the skill level of the position. With this new Canada Express Entry Update, these extra points no longer apply. Candidates who relied on arranged employment to boost their CRS scores may now see their rankings affected.
The government decided on this change due to concerns about the misuse of job offers within the Express Entry system. Some candidates were allegedly securing job offers that did not align with genuine employment needs. This practice artificially inflated CRS scores. IRCC wants to ensure a fairer selection process. The goal is to prioritize candidates based on their skills, experience, and ability to integrate into the Canadian labor market without relying on arranged employment.
Why Did Canada Remove CRS Points for Arranged Employment?
IRCC stated that this is a temporary measure to reduce fraud and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. However, they have not specified when or if these additional CRS points will return. The removal of arranged employment points is part of a broader effort to refine the Express Entry system. This ensures that the system better aligns with Canada’s labor market needs and economic priorities.
Who Will Be Affected by the Canada Express Entry Update?
- Express Entry Candidates: Those who previously benefited from arranged employment points will now have lower CRS scores.
- Applicants Awaiting ITAs: Candidates who have already received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) will not be affected.
- Pending PR Applications: Those who have submitted their PR applications with these points included will not see any changes.
- Employers Seeking Foreign Talent: Canadian employers who used arranged employment as a pathway to hire skilled foreign workers may need to explore other programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or employer-specific work permits.
Canada Express Entry Update: How Can You Improve Your CRS Score Without Arranged Employment?
If your CRS score has dropped due to this change, consider these ways to increase it:
- Improve Your Language Score: Achieving CLB 9 or higher in IELTS can significantly boost your CRS points.
- Gain Additional Education: Completing a higher level of education or obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for additional degrees can add valuable points.
- Secure a Provincial Nomination: Receiving a nomination from a Canadian province under a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can add 600 points to your CRS score.
- Gain More Work Experience: Increasing your years of skilled work experience can enhance your profile.
- Apply with a Spouse: If you are married, your spouse’s education, language skills, and work experience can contribute to a higher CRS score.
What’s Next for Express Entry Candidates?
With this Canada Express Entry Update, the Express Entry landscape is shifting. Stay informed and adapt your strategy to improve your CRS score or explore other immigration pathways.
HelpOverseas Immigration Services can guide you through these changes and help maximize your chances of success. Our experts provide personalized solutions to boost your CRS score and find alternative routes to Canadian permanent residency.
Stay updated with the latest Canada Express Entry Update and improve your chances of securing permanent residency!
