OTTAWA: Canada has announced major changes to its Express Entry immigration system, introducing additional points for skilled workers with eligible Canadian work experience or qualifying job offers in high-wage occupations.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the revised Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) will take effect on November 3, 2026, as part of efforts to attract and retain skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy.
Under the new rules, candidates with at least one year of eligible Canadian work experience in a high-wage occupation may receive 20, 40 or 70 additional CRS points, depending on the wage level associated with their occupation.
Applicants with qualifying job offers in eligible high-wage occupations may receive 50, 70 or 100 additional points, depending on the occupation’s wage level. The assessment will be based on the occupation’s median wage compared with the overall median wage of Canada’s workforce, rather than solely on an individual’s salary.
Candidates eligible under both categories will receive points under only the option that gives them the higher score. Points for Canadian work experience and a qualifying job offer cannot be combined.
Another significant change is the removal of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement for qualifying job offers used to obtain CRS points or meet relevant program eligibility requirements.
However, IRCC will continue to verify the authenticity of job offers, the employer’s ability to fulfil the employment terms, compliance with labour laws, and the candidate’s qualifications and ability to perform the job. Revoked or otherwise ineligible offers will not qualify for points.
IRCC has advised candidates who may qualify for job-offer points to review and update their Express Entry profiles before November 3, 2026, ensuring that all required information is accurate and complete.
The department has also clarified that receiving additional CRS points does not guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residence. Invitations will continue to depend on candidates’ eligibility and the CRS cut-off scores set for individual invitation rounds.
IRCC has said existing profiles will be recalculated under the revised system. The process may take up to two weeks, during which invitation rounds will be temporarily paused before resuming.
