In a significant move to enhance the fairness and integrity of its immigration system, the Canadian government has announced a major change to the Express Entry process. Starting in spring 2025, candidates will no longer gain additional points for possessing a job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This decision aims to address concerns about fraud and ensure a more equitable selection process.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, revealed this update on December 23, 2024. The policy change forms part of broader efforts to uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration framework while continuing to attract top international talent.
Reducing Fraud
This temporary measure is designed to eliminate the misuse of LMIA documents. Previously, some individuals resorted to unethical practices, such as purchasing or selling LMIA-based job offers, to boost their Express Entry scores. By removing the extra points tied to these job offers, the government intends to curb such fraudulent activities.
“We are taking important steps to reduce fraud while continuing to attract the skilled talent our economy needs,” Minister Miller emphasized. “Immigration has always been a cornerstone of Canada’s success, and we remain committed to welcoming the best and brightest to Canada.”
The changes will affect all candidates in the Express Entry pool, including those already working temporarily in Canada, once implemented. However, individuals who have already received an invitation to apply or are in the process of completing their applications will not be impacted.
Broad Implications
Express Entry serves as Canada’s primary system for managing applications for permanent residence under programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Additionally, it supports portions of the Provincial Nominee Program.
The new policy aligns with Canada’s recent efforts to refine its immigration processes. In June 2022, amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act allowed for more targeted selection of immigrants based on specific economic priorities, including professional expertise and language proficiency. The latest change complements these reforms by ensuring the system is both responsive and well-regulated.
Balancing Integrity and Growth
Immigration remains critical to Canada’s economic growth and success. By addressing vulnerabilities in the current system, this initiative aims to maintain a robust and fair process for selecting skilled workers. At the same time, Canada continues to welcome newcomers who contribute to the nation’s diverse economy and cultural landscape.
While the change removes an incentive for unethical practices, it does not diminish Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled professionals. Instead, it reinforces the government’s dedication to transparency and fairness, ensuring that qualified individuals are selected based on merit and genuine contributions to the economy.
The government’s decision reflects its broader vision for a responsive and inclusive immigration system. These changes are expected to build confidence among stakeholders, ensuring that Canada remains a top destination for global talent. As the spring 2025 implementation date approaches, prospective immigrants are encouraged to focus on strengthening other aspects of their profiles, such as work experience, education, and language skills.
By removing the extra points for LMIA-based job offers, Canada is taking a decisive step toward reducing fraud while maintaining its status as a global leader in immigration. This change underscores the country’s commitment to fairness and integrity, ensuring a more level playing field for all Express Entry candidates.
