Express Entry No Longer Giving CRS Points for Job Offers

Canada’s Express Entry system underwent a major shift when IRCC removed CRS points for job offers on March 25, 2025. If you were relying on those extra points - now gone - you’ll need a new strategy. Here's what this change means for you and how to adapt.

What Changed and Why

Previously, a valid job offer - supported by an LMIA or in senior management (NOC 00) - could add 50 or 200 CRS points to your profile. But as of March 25, 2025, those bonus points no longer apply to current or future Express Entry candidates.

This move helps eliminate incentives for fraudulent job offers or LMIAs - protecting the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.

Who Is Impacted?

  • Affected: Anyone with job offer points - those points are already removed from profiles; you may see a drop of 50 or 200 CRS points
  • Unaffected: Candidates who already received an ITA or submitted PR applications before March 25 remain unaffected
  • Still Valid: Job offers remain required for eligibility under the FSTP, FSWP, and some PNP streams—even without adding CRS points

How the Express Entry Pool Changed

Data shows:

  • A sharp decrease in candidates in the 501–600 CRS score range, indicating many lost job offer points.
  • More candidates are now in 451–500 and 401–450 ranges, increasing competition.

This reshuffling means rankings adjust - those without job offers may now be in better relative position.

How to Adapt Your Strategy

Without job offer points, focus on strengthening other areas:

  • Language Proficiency
    Improving English or French scores remains one of the most efficient ways to boost CRS.
  • Education
    Pursue higher education - especially Canadian credentials - to gain additional CRS points.
  • Work Experience
    Gain more skilled or Canadian work experience to enhance your core human capital score.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
    A PNP nomination gives 600 CRS points, effectively guaranteeing an ITA - becoming more valuable than ever.
  • Flexible Pathways
    If eligible, explore category-based draws or French-language advantages, which can offer unique CRS boosts.

Why This Matters

This policy change levels the playing field by removing bonuses tied to job offers - particularly helpful in combating fraud. But it also means competition is shifting. If you previously relied on a job offer, that advantage has vanished.

Now, the emphasis is back on tangible human capital: language, education, experience. Planning strategically will make all the difference.

The removal of CRS points for job offers marks a pivotal change in Canada’s Express Entry system. If your profile dropped, don’t panic—but reassess your strategy. Focus on improving language scores, education, work experience, or targeting a PNP pathway. With patience and clarity, you can still secure your invitation to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Did Express Entry Stop Giving CRS Points For Job Offers?

The change took effect on March 25, 2025 - job offer points were removed from this date onward.

How Many CRS Points Were Job Offers Worth Before?

Valid job offers could provide 200 points for senior management (NOC 00) and 50 points for other skilled roles.

What Can I do Now to Boost my CRS Score?

Focus on improving language proficiency, education credentials, and gaining experience. Also consider applying for a Provincial Nominee Program for a 600-point boost.