How does removing LMIA-based job offer CRS points impact Express Entry candidates?

 Canada has announced a significant change to its Express Entry immigration system. Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed that candidates will no longer receive extra points for having a job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Impact on Express Entry Candidates

Previously, candidates with valid job offers could receive 50 or 200 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This boost often made a crucial difference in receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency. With this change, the playing field will be leveled for all candidates.For example:

• A candidate with a job offer might see their score drop from 530 to 480 points.
• A candidate without a job offer, previously at 490 points, would now have a higher score comparatively.

This shift is expected to affect the distribution of CRS scores and potentially lower the cut-off scores for Express Entry draws.

Reasons for the Change

The Canadian government aims to strengthen the integrity of the immigration system and reduce potential LMIA fraud. By removing these extra points, they hope to create a fairer process for all applicants.

What Candidates Can Do

To improve their chances, Express Entry candidates can focus on:

1. Enhancing language skills: Improving proficiency in English or French can significantly boost CRS scores.
2. Education: Obtaining Canadian degrees or getting foreign credentials assessed can add points.
3. Provincial Nomination: Securing a provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate's score.
4. Work Experience: Gaining more relevant work experience can increase points.

The exact implementation date for these changes is yet to be announced, but the government intends to act quickly. This shift will likely create new opportunities for candidates who previously couldn't compete with those holding LMIA-backed job offers