Canada is preparing to introduce major changes to the Express Entry immigration system in spring 2025, and these updates are expected to significantly impact the country’s immigration landscape.
Indian students and skilled workers, who form one of the largest applicant groups for Canadian permanent residency will be especially affected. One of the most important changes is the removal of extra CRS points for job offers, which will force many candidates to rethink their immigration strategies.
Overview of Express Entry Changes
Removal of CRS Points for Job Offers
Starting in spring 2025, candidates applying through the Express Entry system will no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
Previously:
Job offers could provide 50 to 200 extra CRS points
These points often made the difference between receiving or missing an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
This change aims to address concerns that some applicants were misusing Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) to artificially boost their CRS scores.
A Temporary Measure
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified that this change is temporary, although no timeline has been announced for reversing it.
The move is part of a broader effort to:
Maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system
Continue attracting genuinely skilled workers needed for economic growth
Impact on Indian Students and Workers
Effect on Current and New Applicants
The policy change will apply to:
New Express Entry candidates
Existing candidates already in the pool, including those working in Canada on temporary permits
However, it will not affect:
Candidates who have already received an ITA
Applications currently under processing
These applicants will retain the CRS points they were awarded at the time of invitation.
Challenges for Indian Students Transitioning to PR
Indian international students moving from study permits to work permits may face increased challenges.
Previously:
A post-graduation job offer significantly boosted CRS scores
Now:
Job offers will no longer provide the same advantage
Students will need to rely more on language proficiency, education, and work experience
This change may also influence future decisions about studying or working in Canada.
Broader Impact on Immigration Trends
Indian nationals have historically made up a large portion of Express Entry applicants.
In 2023, over 52,000 Indian citizens received ITAs
This accounted for nearly half of all Express Entry invitations
With job offer points removed:
Competition is expected to increase
Candidates must strengthen other profile components, such as:
Higher language test scores
More skilled work experience
Canadian education credentials
Government’s Rationale Behind the Change
Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized that these reforms are essential to:
Prevent fraud and misuse of LMIAs
Ensure fairness in the immigration system
Continue attracting workers who genuinely meet Canada’s economic needs
By removing job offer points, the government aims to reduce unethical practices and level the playing field for all applicants.
What Indian Applicants Should Do Next
As Canada moves toward implementing these changes in spring 2025, Indian students and workers must adjust their PR strategies.
Key Steps to Stay Competitive:
Improve English or French language scores
Gain more skilled Canadian or international work experience
Pursue higher education or specialized certifications
Monitor category-based Express Entry draws closely
Final Thoughts
The removal of extra CRS points for job offers marks a major shift in Canada’s Express Entry system. While it presents new challenges, it also encourages a more merit-based and transparent immigration process.
Indian students and workers who proactively strengthen their profiles will be better positioned to succeed in this evolving immigration environment.
