Canada Eliminates Express Entry Points for LMIA-Supported Job Offers to Combat Fraud

In a significant policy shift, Canada's Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has announced the removal of additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) within the Express Entry system. This decision aims to enhance the integrity of Canada's immigration process by addressing fraudulent practices associated with LMIA-backed job offers.

Understanding the Previous System

Under the former system, candidates with a valid LMIA-supported job offer could receive a substantial boost to their CRS scores:

• 50 CRS Points: For job offers in positions classified under National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.

• 200 CRS Points: For senior management positions within NOC TEER 0 Major Group 00.

This points allocation significantly increased the likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Rationale Behind the Policy Change

The decision to eliminate these additional points stems from concerns over the misuse and fraudulent acquisition of LMIAs. Reports have surfaced indicating that some individuals were purchasing fraudulent LMIAs to artificially inflate their CRS scores, undermining the fairness of the Express Entry system. By removing the incentive of extra points for LMIA-backed job offers, the government aims to deter such fraudulent activities and promote a more equitable immigration process.

Implications for Express Entry Candidates

The removal of LMIA-related CRS points necessitates that candidates focus on other factors to enhance their profiles:

• Language Proficiency: Achieving higher scores in language tests such as IELTS or CELPIP can contribute significantly to CRS scores.

• Educational Credentials: Obtaining higher educational qualifications or securing Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) can improve rankings.

• Canadian Work Experience: Gaining work experience within Canada remains a valuable asset in the Express Entry system.

Additionally, candidates may consider exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which offer alternative pathways to permanent residency and may provide additional CRS points.

Addressing Fraud and Ensuring Fairness

This policy change is part of a broader effort by Canadian immigration authorities to combat fraud and maintain the integrity of the immigration system. By eliminating the additional points for LMIA-backed job offers, the government seeks to remove the incentive for candidates to engage in fraudulent activities, thereby ensuring a fairer selection process for all applicants.

Conclusion

The elimination of CRS points for LMIA-supported job offers represents a pivotal change in Canada's Express Entry system. Prospective immigrants must now place greater emphasis on other aspects of their profiles to enhance their chances of receiving an ITA. This move underscores Canada's commitment to a transparent and equitable immigration process, free from fraudulent practices.