Big Changes to Express Entry: IRCC Removes LMIA Points from CRS

In a significant shift for Canada's immigration landscape, Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced the removal of Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) points from the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for Express Entry candidates. This change, effective immediately as of December 18, 2024, marks a major policy adjustment with implications for temporary foreign workers and those seeking permanent residency in Canada.

What is an LMIA and Why Did it Matter?

An LMIA is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labor 1  market. Previously, a positive LMIA would award Express Entry candidates significant bonus points (up to 50 for NOC skill level B jobs and 200 for NOC skill level 0, A jobs) in the CRS, giving them a considerable advantage in the competitive pool.

Why the Change?

Minister Miller outlined several key reasons for this policy shift:

• Focus on broader skills and experience: The removal aims to attract candidates with diverse skills and experience, rather than prioritizing those with job offers alone.

• Addressing potential misuse: There have been concerns about the potential misuse of the LMIA system, and this change aims to mitigate such risks.

• Leveling the playing field: This adjustment seeks to create a more equitable system for all candidates, regardless of whether they have a job offer.

  
  

What Does This Mean for You?

• For those relying on LMIA points: Candidates who were heavily relying on LMIA points to boost their CRS score will need to reassess their profile and potentially focus on improving other factors such as language proficiency, education, and work experience.

• For those without a job offer: This change could open up more opportunities for candidates outside of Canada without a job offer, as the CRS cut-off scores may potentially decrease.

• Increased competition: The Express Entry pool may become more competitive as candidates rely on a wider range of factors to improve their CRS scores.