Immigration,
Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced its intention to reinstate Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers under Express Entry as
part of a broader set of immigration reforms, in its departmental plan released
on March 13, 2026. The purpose of these changes is to support Prime Minister
Mark Carney’s Talent Attraction Strategy to attract global talent into Canada.
Express Entry System
Express Entry
is Canada’s application management system for three immigration programs: the
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP); Canadian Experience Class (CEC); and,
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Eligible candidates receive a score
based on criteria such as their age, education, work experience, and language
skills. The Canadian government routinely holds draws inviting the
highest-scoring candidates to apply for permanent residence.
Focus on High-Wage and Regulated Occupations
Specifically, candidates may be able to claim
points for job offers in high-wage occupations. IRCC is also considering the
prospect of granting points to those who have been certified in regulated
occupations where licensing is required to practice in Canada.
Defining “High-Wage” Employment
Although IRCC has not specified its definition of
“high wage” for the purposes of Express Entry, the term is already
used in other programs with reference to provincial median wages, which may
provide a clue for how the reforms could unfold.
Reversal
of 2025 Policy Changes
The planned reform would effectively reverse the
decision taken in March 2025 to remove job offer points from Express Entry, a
move that was made due to concerns about fraud with supported Labour Market
Impact Assessments (LMIAs). The change had a massive impact on the ranking of
candidates.
It is essential to understand the impact that
immigration reforms have on your profile as they are proposed and implemented.
A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation can advise on your likelihood of
qualifying for Express Entry once job offer points return, and provide tips and
resources on how to acquire a valid job offer in order to maximize your chances
of permanent residence.
