Introduction

As of March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has removed the additional CRS points previously awarded for arranged employment in the Express Entry system. Candidates will no longer receive 50 or 200 bonus points for having a valid job offer, even if supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). 

This change affects all active profiles in the Express Entry pool by modifying the points distribution, which directly impacts candidate rankings. Although valid job offers remain relevant for eligibility under certain programs, they no longer contribute to CRS scores.

Key Changes to CRS Scoring

The CRS is a points-based system used to rank candidates based on factors such as age, education, language ability, work experience, and additional criteria. Previously, a valid job offer could contribute a points boost: 50 points for most NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 roles, and 200 points for senior management positions.

As of the new ministerial instructions, this provision has been eliminated. Candidates who previously relied on job offers to increase their scores will now be ranked solely on their core human capital and other non-employment-based criteria. Scores may drop for many individuals in the pool, creating both new challenges and opportunities.

Who Is Affected?

This update applies to all active Express Entry candidates who had claimed additional points for a qualifying job offer. These individuals will now see their CRS scores reduced by the amount previously granted for arranged employment.

Candidates who already received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) before March 25, 2025, or those who have submitted permanent residence applications, are not affected. IRCC has clarified that the removal of job offer points is a temporary measure, though no end date has been announced.

Why the Change Was Made

According to IRCC, the main reason for removing job offer-related CRS points is to address the misuse of LMIAs and fraudulent job offers. Former Immigration Minister Marc Miller raised concerns that the system was being exploited by candidates purchasing job offers to boost their scores unfairly.

This change is intended to protect the integrity of the immigration process by prioritizing genuine qualifications. It redirects focus to core factors like language proficiency, education, and Canadian work experience—key elements of successful integration.

Ongoing Role of Job Offers

Despite the removal of CRS points, job offers remain relevant for eligibility in several immigration programs. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams continue to consider valid employment offers during assessment.

Job offers may also support work permit applications and aid in long-term settlement. Although their value in CRS calculations has diminished, they still contribute meaningfully to an applicant’s overall immigration plan.

What Candidates Should Do Now

With job offer points removed, candidates should strengthen other aspects of their Express Entry profiles. Improving language scores, gaining more work experience, or pursuing higher education can help increase CRS scores. 

Securing a provincial nomination remains one of the most effective strategies, adding 600 points. Regional Provincial Nominee Programs tailored to local labour needs offer valuable alternatives for applicants whose CRS scores may fall short in federal draws.

Conclusion

The removal of CRS points for arranged employment changes the dynamics of Express Entry. While it may be a setback for some, it promotes a more merit-based and fraud-resistant system. Applicants need to re-evaluate their strategies, emphasizing core qualifications and exploring alternative pathways.

For those navigating Canada’s immigration system—whether through Express Entry, AINP, or sponsorship programs—reliable guidance is more important than ever. Working with knowledgeable professionals like Immigration Consultants in Edmonton can provide critical support. Whether you’re preparing for PR in Alberta or exploring a Work Permit Edmonton or Canada Study Visa, staying informed is key to long-term success.