Canada Implements Measures to Combat Fraud in Express Entry System
December 23, 2024—Ottawa—The Government of Canada is dedicated to enhancing the integrity of its immigration system while attracting top international talent to bolster the Canadian workforce.
In a significant move to curb fraudulent activities, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, revealed that candidates in the Express Entry system will no longer receive extra points for having a job offer.
This temporary change aims to diminish the occurrence of fraud by eliminating the motivation to unlawfully trade labor market impact assessments to elevate a candidate’s chances of gaining permanent residency in Canada. The new regulation is set to take effect in spring 2025.
Upon implementation, these adjustments will affect individuals seeking permanent residence through Express Entry, including those already working temporarily in Canada. However, candidates who have already been invited to apply or whose applications are underway will not be impacted. Post-implementation, the rule will apply both to existing candidates with job offers and to new applicants entering the pool.
Immigration plays a crucial role in our nation’s economic vitality and expansion. As Canada continues to welcome immigrants to support important sectors, the Express Entry system ensures the recruitment of skilled workers necessary for economic growth. These modifications promote an agile, well-regulated, and equitable immigration system.
Ensuring a Future of Growth
At PL Immigration, we are making significant strides to combat fraud and simultaneously draw the skilled professionals essential for the growth of the Canadian economy. Immigration has been a fundamental element in the success story of Canada, and we are dedicated to opening our doors to the most talented individuals. Our mission is to ensure everyone has access to quality employment, housing, and the support they need for a prosperous future in Canada.
– Statement by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Changes in Express Entry: No More Additional Points for Job Offers
PL Immigration Insight: The recent announcement by IRCC about ceasing additional points for Express Entry candidates with job offers has sparked quite a bit of confusion. This change is set to be implemented in Spring 2025, but the absence of a specific date suggests a flexible timeline.
The delay in implementation may be related to the need to update the existing Express Entry system, which likely requires significant technical adjustments. This brings to mind the complications experienced during the transition to NOC2021.
The advisory indicates that no additional points will be awarded for job offers. It’s unclear whether this pertains exclusively to those with LMIA, or if candidates with closed work permits for LMIA-exempt positions will also be affected. Such ambiguity adds to the uncertainty surrounding the process for hopeful immigrants.
Stay tuned for further updates as PL Immigration monitors the developments of these new IRCC directives.
Quick Facts
These initiatives align with our continuous efforts to strengthen and ensure fairness in Canada’s immigration system, as outlined on December 17.
Express Entry serves as Canada’s primary application management platform for individuals aspiring to gain permanent residency through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and portions of the Provincial Nominee Program.
In June 2022, the Canadian government revised the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to enable the selection of immigrants based on essential characteristics that align with economic goals, such as specific occupational experience or proficiency in French.
