On December 23, 2024, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced a series of new measures aimed at reducing fraud in Canada’s Express Entry system. The Government of Canada is committed to strengthening the integrity of the country’s immigration process while continuing to attract top talent from around the world.
Starting in Spring 2025, Express Entry candidates will no longer receive additional points for having a job offer. This temporary measure is designed to eliminate the incentive for the illegal buying or selling of labour market impact assessments (LMIAs) to improve a candidate’s chances of being selected for permanent residence.
The changes will affect candidates pursuing permanent residence through the Express Entry system, including those currently working in Canada temporarily. However, candidates who have already been invited to apply or who have applications in progress will not be impacted. Once implemented, the new regulations will apply to all candidates with job offers both in the pool and new applicants.
The Express Entry system is crucial in ensuring that Canada continues to attract skilled workers essential for the country’s economic growth. These measures support a responsive, well-managed, and fair immigration system.
“We are committed to reducing fraud and attracting the skilled talent that drives our economy forward. Immigration has been foundational to Canada’s success, and we continue to welcome the best and brightest to ensure everyone has access to quality jobs, homes, and support.” — The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick Facts:
- These new measures align with ongoing efforts to strengthen Canada’s immigration system, as announced on December 17.
- Express Entry is Canada’s primary application system for permanent residency, managing applications for programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class, and part of the Provincial Nominee Program.
- In June 2022, amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act allowed for the selection of immigrants based on key economic attributes, such as specific work experience or proficiency in French.
Canada remains dedicated to maintaining a rigorous and fair immigration process, ensuring the country continues to benefit from a diverse and talented workforce.
