Breaking News: Major Overhaul to Canada’s Skilled Immigration System

Canada has announced transformative changes to its Express Entry immigration system, impacting professionals seeking permanent residency, including those currently working in the country on temporary permits. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s changing, how it affects candidates, and the new rules introduced by the Canadian government.

Key Changes to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which determines eligibility for permanent residence, will see a major shift starting in spring 2025. The Canadian government has decided to remove additional CRS points for job offers, a move expected to reshape the immigration landscape.

Government’s Rationale

This change aims to curb fraudulent practices by eliminating the incentive to misuse labour market impact assessments (LMIAs) to enhance CRS scores. Officials emphasize that the goal is to maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system while ensuring it continues to attract skilled talent essential for economic growth.

Impact on Immigration Aspirants

Who Will Be Affected?

The removal of job offer points will affect:

• Candidates applying for permanent residence through the Express Entry system.
• Individuals currently in Canada on temporary permits who rely on arranged employment points to bolster their CRS scores.
• New and existing applicants in the Express Entry pool, once the changes are implemented.

Who Is Exempt?

The updated rules will not impact:

• Candidates who have already received invitations to apply for permanent residency based on CRS scores, including points for arranged employment.
• Applicants with PR applications already under review by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Understanding Express Entry

The Express Entry system is Canada’s premier online platform for managing immigration applications from skilled workers under programs such as:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class
• Parts of the Provincial Nominee Program

Eligible candidates create profiles and enter a pool where the highest-scoring individuals are invited to apply for permanent residency. Applications are then reviewed for final approval.

End of Flagpoling Practices

Canada has also implemented an immediate policy change banning flagpoling as part of its Border Plan.

What Is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling occurs when temporary residents leave Canada, visit nearby regions (such as the U.S.), and re-enter to access immigration services at the port of entry.

Reason for the Ban

The practice has strained border resources, delaying essential enforcement activities and increasing wait times for cross-border travelers. Moving forward, work and study permits will no longer be issued at ports of entry.

Canada’s Commitment to Skilled Immigration

The Canadian government remains steadfast in welcoming skilled professionals who can contribute to the nation’s economic success. While these changes might introduce new challenges, they reflect a broader commitment to ensuring fairness, efficiency, and security in the immigration process.

For prospective immigrants, staying informed and preparing for these adjustments will be crucial in navigating Canada’s evolving immigration landscape.