Immigrate to Canada
IRCC to Remove CRS Points for Job Offers in Express Entry by Spring 2025

In a significant shift to Canada’s immigration landscape, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced plans to remove Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers under the Express Entry system. This change, set to take effect in spring 2025, is poised to impact thousands of candidates vying for Canadian permanent residency (PR).
Here’s a closer look at what this means for aspiring immigrants and how it will reshape the Express Entry process.
Why Is IRCC Removing CRS Points for Job Offers?
Under the current Express Entry system, candidates with valid job offers can gain an additional 50 or 200 CRS points, depending on the position. These points often play a decisive role in securing an invitation to apply (ITA) for PR.
IRCC has clarified that removing these points is a temporary measure but has not provided a timeline for their reinstatement. The government aims to create a more equitable system by focusing on candidates’ overall skills and qualifications rather than their job offer status.
This update will apply to all candidates in the Express Entry pool, including:
New Candidates: Those submitting profiles after the policy takes effect.
Existing Candidates: Profiles already in the pool before spring 2025.
However, some groups will remain unaffected:
Candidates who receive an ITA before the change.
Applicants whose PR applications are already under review.
This means the transition will primarily impact those still awaiting an ITA when the policy is implemented.
Programs Impacted by the Change
The new policy will affect all three main immigration programs under Express Entry:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Currently, these programs award additional CRS points based on factors like:
Factor | Maximum Additional Points |
Arranged Employment | 50–200 points |
Provincial Nomination | 600 points |
French Language Proficiency | Up to 50 points |
Sibling in Canada | 15 points |
Education in Canada | Up to 30 points |
By removing job offer points, IRCC aims to prioritize other core human capital factors such as education, age, and language skills.
Why Is This a Game-Changer?
For many candidates, arranged employment has been a critical advantage. The removal of these points levels the playing field, allowing individuals without Canadian job offers to compete more effectively.
However, it also means candidates must focus on strengthening their profiles in other areas, such as:
- Language Proficiency: High scores in English or French can significantly boost CRS rankings.
- Provincial Nomination: Securing a nomination remains the most lucrative CRS boost, offering 600 additional points.
- Educational Credentials: Upgrading qualifications or obtaining Canadian education credentials can enhance a profile.
What’s Next for Express Entry?
The removal of job offer points is part of IRCC’s broader strategy to make the Express Entry system more inclusive and skills-oriented. It aligns with Canada’s evolving labor market needs and the push to attract talent that supports long-term economic growth.
For candidates aiming to secure PR through Express Entry, the key will be to adapt to the new scoring criteria. Strengthening language skills, gaining additional qualifications, or exploring provincial nomination programs will become more critical than ever.
The removal of CRS points for job offers is a bold step by IRCC to redefine Express Entry. While this change may create challenges for some, it also opens doors for others to compete on a more balanced playing field.
If you’re planning to apply through Express Entry, start preparing now. Strengthen your profile, explore alternative pathways, and stay informed about policy updates to improve your chances of success in Canada’s competitive immigration system.
For more insights and expert advice on Express Entry, stay informed with the latest Canada Immigration news—your trusted source for the latest updates in Canadian immigration.