Express Entry Update: IEC Work Permit Holders Face CRS Changes
Introduction
Canada’s Express Entry system is undergoing a significant change that will impact International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit holders. Starting in spring 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will remove the bonus Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points awarded for valid job offers. This change will affect candidates relying on these points to boost their rankings in the Express Entry pool.
For many IEC work permit holders, a valid job offer previously provided 50 to 200 additional CRS points, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Permanent Residence. The removal of these bonus points means candidates will now have to find alternative ways to strengthen their profiles.
In this article, we will explore the implications of this change, what IEC candidates can do to adapt, and how Go Get can assist in navigating these updates.
What is Changing in Express Entry?
Previous CRS Points for Job Offers
Under the current system, candidates with a valid job offer in Canada can receive additional CRS points:
- 50 points for a job offer in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (high-skilled occupations)
- 200 points for a job offer in TEER 0 (executive-level positions)
These additional points have often been the deciding factor in whether a candidate receives an ITA for PR. However, as part of recent Express Entry reforms, IRCC is temporarily removing these additional points.
Why is IRCC Removing These Points?
The Canadian government cites multiple reasons for this policy change:
- Reducing fraud and misuse of job offers: Some applicants have been found to use Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) approvals inappropriately to gain additional CRS points.
- Ensuring fairness in the selection process: The government aims to prioritize human capital factors such as education, work experience, and language proficiency over employer-specific job offers.
- Streamlining the immigration process: By reducing reliance on job offers, IRCC aims to create a more balanced and accessible pathway for all Express Entry candidates.
How This Change Affects IEC Work Permit Holders
IEC work permit holders, particularly those under the Working Holiday Visa, often depend on job offers to enhance their CRS scores. With the removal of job offer points, many candidates may now find it harder to meet the required CRS cut-off for Express Entry draws.
Challenges IEC Candidates May Face
- Lower CRS scores: Without job offer points, many candidates will have lower rankings in the Express Entry pool.
- Fewer chances to receive an ITA: With competition increasing, IEC candidates may need to explore alternative pathways.
- Dependence on human capital factors: Candidates will now need to improve their language scores, gain more work experience, or pursue further education to remain competitive.
Alternative Ways to Boost Your CRS Score
If you are an IEC work permit holder affected by this change, there are still ways to improve your CRS score and enhance your chances of receiving an ITA.
1. Improve Your Language Scores (IELTS/CELPIP)
Language proficiency in English or French is one of the most significant factors in the CRS ranking system. Consider retaking your IELTS or CELPIP test to achieve higher scores, especially in:
- CLB 9 or above to maximize points
- French proficiency (TEF or TCF) for additional bonus points
2. Gain More Canadian Work Experience
Work experience in Canada is highly valued in Express Entry. If you are on an IEC work permit, ensure you:
- Gain at least one year of skilled work experience to qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Continue working in a high-demand industry to improve your chances
3. Pursue Further Education in Canada
A higher level of education can significantly improve your CRS score. Consider:
- Completing a Post-Graduate Certificate or Diploma in Canada
- Applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) to gain more work experience
4. Secure a Provincial Nomination (PNP)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer a great alternative to Express Entry. Many provinces prioritize candidates with:
- Canadian work experience
- Skills in in-demand occupations
- A valid job offer from a provincial employer
A PNP nomination gives you an extra 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA for PR.
5. Apply for Spousal Points
If you have a spouse or common-law partner, they may be able to contribute additional CRS points by:
- Completing language tests
- Listing their educational credentials
- Demonstrating work experience
What Should IEC Work Permit Holders Do Now?
1. Submit Your PR Application Before the Change
If you already have a valid job offer and qualify for Express Entry, apply as soon as possible before the new policy takes effect in spring 2025.
2. Explore Other PR Pathways
If your CRS score is too low without job offer points, consider alternative pathways such as:
- PNP streams
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
3. Seek Professional Guidance
Navigating these changes can be challenging. Seeking expert immigration advice can help you make the right decisions.
How Guide Me Immigration Can Help You
At Guide Me Immigration , we specialize in providing tailored immigration solutions. Our experts can help IEC work permit holders:
✅ Assess their current CRS score
✅ Improve their Express Entry profile
✅ Identify suitable PNP programs
✅ Explore alternative PR pathways
📌 Saskatoon: 535 20th St West, Unit-C
📌 Regina: Unit 170 – 2410 Dewdney Ave
📌 Dhaka: Apt-2D, H-396, R-6 Avenue 3
📞 Call us: +1 (306) 700 7440
📧 Email:info@guidemeimmigration.com
🌐 Website: http://guidemeimmigration.com
Other Link:http://go-get.ca
Conclusion
The removal of CRS job offer points is a major change that will impact many IEC work permit holders. However, there are still multiple pathways available to achieve permanent residency in Canada.
Now is the time to act! Whether it’s improving your CRS score, exploring PNP options, or seeking professional guidance, planning ahead will give you the best chance at success.
Contact Go Get today and secure your future in Canada!
