December 29th, 2024 at 01:06 am

IRCC New Policy Changes | Canada Immigration 2025 | Express Entry

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced significant changes to the Express Entry system. Starting in spring 2025, candidates will no longer receive additional points for having a job offer. This shift could greatly impact how candidates secure invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Currently, candidates with valid job offers can earn an extra 50 or 200 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. These points often determine whether a candidate receives an ITA. By removing this incentive, IRCC aims to create a more equitable selection process. However, they clarified that this removal is a “temporary measure” and have not provided a timeline for when it might end.

Who Will Be Affected?

The changes will apply to all candidates in the Express Entry pool, including those already in Canada temporarily with job offers. IRCC did not specify which sectors might be affected. Instead, they stated that the adjustments would encompass all candidates holding job offers.

Importantly, this change will not affect individuals who have already received an ITA based on their CRS score, which includes points for a job offer. Additionally, those who have submitted applications for permanent residence currently in processing will also remain unaffected.

Understanding Candidates vs. Applicants

Within the Express Entry system, it’s crucial to differentiate between “candidates” and “applicants.” Upon entering the pool, newcomers become candidates after submitting their profiles. Once they receive an ITA, they transition to applicants by submitting their permanent residence applications.

Announcement Overview

On December 17, Immigration Minister Marc Miller first introduced this policy change. He stated that candidates seeking Canadian permanent residence would lose points for LMIA-based job offers. At that time, he did not provide specifics on implementation or the scope of affected candidates.

A Closer Look at Express Entry

Canada’s Express Entry system currently awards extra points for arranged employment. This applies to candidates under three main immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

After creating an Express Entry profile and meeting eligibility criteria, candidates receive a score out of 1200. This score considers various factors, including:

• Age
• Education
• Language proficiency
• Work experience

Candidates can also gain up to 600 additional points through other means, such as having a sibling in Canada, demonstrating French language skills, or obtaining a provincial nomination.

As the spring 2025 implementation date approaches, candidates should prepare for these changes. Understanding the revised scoring system will be vital for those aiming to immigrate to Canada. The removal of job offer points marks a significant shift in the Express Entry process, emphasizing adaptability and strategic planning in the pursuit of Canadian permanent residence.