Update: IRCC Removes LMIA Points From CRS

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Post on Dec 19, 2024

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Update: IRCC Removes LMIA Points from CRS

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a significant change to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) used to select candidates for Express Entry. Effective immediately, the points previously awarded for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) have been removed. This change has significant implications for prospective immigrants hoping to gain entry to Canada through Express Entry. This article delves into the details of this update and explores its potential impact on applicants.

What Does This Change Mean?

Previously, possessing a positive LMIA significantly boosted an applicant's CRS score. An LMIA demonstrated that a job offer had been made to the applicant and that there was a demonstrated need for their skills in the Canadian labor market. This resulted in a substantial number of points being added to their CRS score, improving their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

With the removal of LMIA points, candidates who rely solely on a job offer with an LMIA will now be at a disadvantage. Their CRS scores will be lower, making it more challenging to compete for limited ITAs in Express Entry draws.

Why Did IRCC Make This Change?

The IRCC hasn't explicitly stated the reasons behind this change. However, several factors could have contributed:

• Addressing Backlogs: The IRCC is currently facing significant application backlogs. Reducing the reliance on LMIAs might help streamline the process and alleviate some of the pressure on the system.

• Promoting a More Balanced Approach: The previous system arguably placed too much emphasis on job offers with LMIAs. This change may aim to create a more balanced system, considering other factors like education, language proficiency, and work experience.

• Responding to Labor Market Dynamics: The Canadian labor market is constantly evolving. This change might reflect an attempt by IRCC to better adapt to shifting needs and ensure that the immigration system aligns with current economic realities.

How Will This Affect Express Entry Applicants?

This change presents both challenges and opportunities for Express Entry applicants:

Challenges:

• Increased Competition: Candidates relying solely on LMIA-supported job offers will face significantly increased competition for ITAs. Higher CRS scores will be necessary to secure an invitation.
• Higher Requirement for Other CRS Factors: Applicants will need to strengthen their profiles in other areas, such as improving their language proficiency (IELTS or TEF scores), gaining more work experience, or pursuing higher education to compensate for the lost LMIA points.

Opportunities:

• Focus on Skill Acquisition: This change incentivizes candidates to focus on acquiring skills and qualifications highly sought after in the Canadian labor market, thus increasing their overall competitiveness.
• Emphasis on Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): PNPs remain a valuable pathway to immigration, offering alternative routes to permanent residency and often bypassing the CRS altogether. This change might lead to more applicants exploring PNP options.

What Should Applicants Do Now?

Applicants should:

• Assess their CRS score: Calculate their updated CRS score without the LMIA points.
• Identify areas for improvement: Focus on improving their language skills, work experience, or education to increase their competitiveness.
• Explore Provincial Nominee Programs: Research PNP options and determine if they are a suitable alternative.
• Stay updated: Keep abreast of any further announcements from the IRCC regarding changes to the Express Entry system.

The removal of LMIA points from the CRS marks a significant shift in Canada's immigration strategy. While challenging for some, this change could lead to a more equitable and adaptable system in the long run. Prospective immigrants must now adapt their strategies, focusing on strengthening their profiles in other crucial areas to increase their chances of success.