Prepare for 2025: IRCC to Remove Job Offer Points from Express Entry

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a significant update to the Express Entry system. Starting spring 2025, additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for valid job offers will no longer be awarded. Below is a breakdown of the key details and the impact of this change.

Current State of CRS Points for Job Offers

Under the existing system, Express Entry candidates with a valid job offer can receive:

• 50 CRS points for most jobs
• 200 CRS points for senior management positions

These points often play a crucial role in determining whether a candidate receives an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Details of the Upcoming Change

• Implementation Date: Spring 2025
• Scope: All new and existing candidates in the Express Entry pool, including those working temporarily in Canada, will be affected.
• Sectors: The change applies universally to all job offers, regardless of the sector.

While IRCC describes this as a “temporary measure,” no specific timeline for reinstating these points has been provided.

Who Will Not Be Impacted?

The following groups are exempt from this change:

1. Candidates with ITAs Already Issued: Those who received invitations before the policy change with CRS points for a job offer will not lose those points.
2. Applicants in Process: Individuals who have already submitted their permanent residence applications based on ITAs issued under the current system.

Clarification of Terms

• Candidates: Individuals with active profiles in the Express Entry pool awaiting ITAs.
• Applicants: Individuals who have received ITAs and submitted applications for permanent residence.

This distinction is crucial as the changes apply only to candidates, not applicants.

Express Entry Overview

The Express Entry system uses a CRS to rank candidates for three immigration pathways:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The CRS scores candidates based on factors such as:

• Age
• Education
• Work experience
• Language proficiency

Candidates can also earn additional points for:

• Provincial/territorial nominations (600 points)
• Sibling connections in Canada
• French language skills
• Canadian education credentials
• Arranged employment (to be removed in 2025)

Context of the Announcement

On December 17, IRCC revealed this policy shift, marking a significant change in how candidates are ranked within the Express Entry system. While details on the broader implications are still emerging, this update reflects ongoing adjustments to Canada’s immigration priorities.

This change underscores IRCC's evolving approach to immigration, with a focus on balancing candidate evaluation factors. Candidates should monitor further updates and adjust their profiles and strategies accordingly.