On March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) officially removed Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers under the Express Entry system — a move that is already reshaping how candidates in the Express Entry pool are evaluated and ranked.
This change, which took immediate effect, eliminates the allocation of 200 points for senior managerial positions and 50 points for other eligible job offers that were previously recognized in the CRS. While the policy shift was announced in December 2024, many assumed the changes would include advanced notice. Instead, IRCC moved quickly, formalizing the change through updated Ministerial Instructions released on March 11, 2025.
So what does this mean for you — especially if you’re actively navigating Canada’s Express Entry system or planning your immigration strategy?
What Express Entry Candidates Need to Know
For individuals in the Express Entry pool, or those preparing to submit a profile, this change means that having a job offer will no longer boost your CRS score. Points for a qualifying job offer will still be awarded in streams such as Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades and some Provincial Nominee Programs.
Previously, job offers were a strategic way to enhance your score and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
It’s important to note that job offers still matter — but only in specific contexts:
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Speak to a Cross-Border Immigration Lawyer
Whether you’re recalibrating your Canadian Express Entry strategy or exploring business opportunities in the U.S., Guberman // Appleby Immigration Lawyers is here to help. We offer personalized guidance based on your goals — whether that’s permanent residency, a US business visa for Canadians, or cross-border family sponsorship.
// Contact Us
We welcome you to contact us directly to discuss the above. Please contact one of our immigration lawyers, by reaching out to our general line 416 548 7100 or via email info@gaimmlaw.com. Our immigration lawyers are always available to discuss any of your specific Canadian or US immigration queries either virtually or in person. We look forward to hearing from you.
