Canada to Scrap LMIA Points in Express Entry by Spring 2025

In a groundbreaking move, the Canadian government has announced sweeping changes to its Express Entry system to combat fraud and preserve the integrity of its immigration framework. Starting spring 2025, candidates applying through Express Entry will no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

This policy change aims to address the widespread issue of LMIA fraud, a growing concern that undermines Canada’s immigration process. Unscrupulous agents and employers have exploited the LMIA system by selling fraudulent job offers to prospective immigrants, often charging exorbitant fees ranging from $10,000 to $90,000.

Attention #ExpressEntry candidates : Starting in spring 2025, you will no longer receive additional points for having a job offer: https://t.co/k0YhhB6URL

This temporary measure will reduce fraud by removing the incentive to illegally buy or sell labour market impact assessments…

— IRCC (@CitImmCanada) December 23, 2024

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that Canadian employers must obtain to hire foreign workers. It serves as proof that the job cannot be filled by a Canadian worker. Currently, candidates with valid LMIA-backed job offers can receive an additional 50 to 200 points in their CRS score, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

However, this system has been manipulated by unethical practices. Fraudsters often provide fake job offers or use shell companies to issue LMIAs, creating a lucrative market for illegal activity. In some cases, foreign workers are charged fees for fake LMIAs, only to discover later that their job offers were invalid, leaving them stranded in Canada or facing legal repercussions.

Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, acknowledged these challenges and emphasized the importance of the new policy in addressing them:

“We are taking important steps to reduce fraud while continuing to attract the skilled talent our economy needs. Immigration has always been a cornerstone of Canada’s success, and we remain committed to welcoming the best and brightest to Canada so that everyone has access to the quality jobs, homes, and supports they need to thrive.”

Once implemented, the new rules will apply to all candidates in the Express Entry pool, including those already holding LMIA-backed job offers. However, candidates who have already received an ITA or have submitted their applications will not be affected.

The change is expected to level the playing field by eliminating a key incentive for fraudulent job offers. It also shifts the focus of the Express Entry system to other vital attributes, such as education, skills, work experience, and language proficiency, ensuring that selected candidates genuinely meet Canada’s economic needs.

“These changes support a responsive, well-managed, and fair immigration system. As we continue to welcome newcomers to support key sectors, the Express Entry system ensures that Canada has the skilled workers it needs to grow our economy,” Minister Miller said in a statement.

The government has yet to announce an exact implementation date in spring 2025. Applicants and stakeholders are encouraged to stay updated on these changes and adjust their strategies accordingly.

By addressing LMIA fraud head-on, Canada reaffirms its dedication to maintaining a transparent and robust immigration system while continuing to attract top global talent to contribute to its economic success.