New LMIA Point Changes in Express Entry Starting Spring 2025: What You Need to Know

The Canadian immigration landscape is undergoing a significant shift. Starting Spring 2025, additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) will no longer be part of the Express Entry system. This reform is aimed at enhancing fairness, reducing fraud, and ensuring that the Express Entry system focuses on core human capital factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Let’s break down what these changes mean, who they impact, and how prospective immigrants can adjust their strategies to improve their chances of success.

Why Are LMIA Points Being Removed?

According to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the removal of LMIA-based CRS points is part of an ongoing effort to:

1. Reduce Fraud: The system has faced issues with fraudulent job offers, undermining the integrity of Express Entry.

2. Promote Fairness: This change levels the playing field by placing greater emphasis on individual qualifications rather than employer-backed job offers.

3. Simplify Processes: Streamlining the CRS criteria reduces dependency on third-party validations like LMIAs, which can be resource-intensive for employers and applicants alike.

   
   

For more details, read the official announcement: Canada Takes Action to Reduce Fraud in Express Entry System.

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

1. Core Human Capital Factors Take Center Stage

With LMIA points removed, applicants must rely more heavily on the following CRS criteria:

• Age: Younger candidates score higher.

• Education: Higher levels of education, especially Canadian credentials, are advantageous.

• Work Experience: Both Canadian and foreign work experience remain critical.

• Language Proficiency: Strong English or French test scores can significantly boost CRS scores.

2. Job Offers Are Still Valuable

While LMIAs no longer provide extra CRS points, having a valid job offer still strengthens an applicant’s overall profile and ability to succeed economically in Canada. Employers may also support applicants through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which remain unaffected by this change.

3. Provincial Nominee Programs Gain Importance

Many provinces offer additional pathways to permanent residence through PNPs. These programs often prioritize candidates with job offers in key industries, making PNPs an excellent alternative for employer-supported applicants.

Case Scenarios

Scenario 1: Ahmed, an IT Professional with a Job Offer

Ahmed, 32, has an LMIA-supported job offer as a software engineer in Toronto. Under the old system, this would have added 50 CRS points to his Express Entry profile. Post-2025, Ahmed’s CRS score will solely depend on his age, Master’s degree, work experience, and language scores.

Solution: Ahmed can improve his CRS score by:

• Enhancing his English test results.

• Exploring PNP options in Ontario, which often prioritize IT professionals with job offers.

  
  

Scenario 2: Priya, an International Graduate in Canada

Priya, 25, recently completed a Master’s degree in Canada and has two years of work experience under a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). She does not have a job offer but has a strong language score.

Impact: Priya’s profile remains competitive as the changes favor candidates with Canadian education and work experience.

Strategy: Priya should consider:

• Applying to PNPs that target international graduates.

• Accumulating additional work experience in Canada to boost her CRS score.

  
  

Scenario 3: Carlos, an Experienced Worker Without Canadian Ties

Carlos, 40, is a civil engineer with 10 years of experience outside Canada. He was relying on an LMIA-backed job offer to boost his CRS score, but that option is no longer available.

Challenge: Carlos faces difficulty competing with younger candidates who score higher on age and language.

Options:

• Improving his French or English test scores.

• Targeting PNPs in provinces that prioritize engineering professionals.

  
  

How to Adapt to the Changes

1. Focus on Language Scores: Maximizing English or French proficiency can significantly increase your CRS score.

2. Pursue Canadian Credentials: Studying or working in Canada can provide bonus points and open pathways through PNPs.

3. Explore PNPs: Many provinces offer additional CRS points or direct nominations for candidates aligned with their economic priorities.

4. Stay Informed: Immigration policies evolve frequently. Regularly check IRCC updates and consult with licensed immigration professionals.

   
   

   

   Parliament Hill stands tall against a backdrop of iconic maple leaves, symbolizing Canada's welcoming Express Entry system.

   
   

Conclusion

The removal of LMIA points from the Express Entry system represents a shift towards a more transparent and equitable process. While this change may challenge some applicants, it also provides an opportunity for skilled workers to focus on core human capital factors and provincial pathways.

For personalized advice and assistance with your Canadian immigration journey, visit Litmus Immigration Services. Our team of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) is here to help you navigate these changes and achieve your goals.