Canada’s new changes to express immigration could disappoint Indians seeking permanent residency

Canada has announced a major change to its express entry system that will come into effect after spring next year, 2025. As per the revised rules, candidates applying for Permanent Residency (PR) will not receive additional points for their job offers. The move is likely to impact Indians seeking permanent residency in Canada next year.

What is the job offer benefit in the Canadian Express Entry system?

The Government of Canada manages online permanent residency applications for skilled workers. Under the current Express Entry system, applicants with valid job offers can receive an additional 50 or even 200 CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) points. These additional points were seen as a game-changer for many applicants who were unable to clear the system for PR.

Why has Canada cut application benefits in the Express System?

The aim of this measure is to reduce fraud in the PR application system by specialists. “As part of ongoing efforts to prevent and reduce fraud, the Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced that Express Entry candidates will no longer receive additional points toward a job offer,” it said an official statement dated December 23.

The government described the move as “temporary” and said the decision would help curb fraud in the express system.

“We are taking important steps to reduce fraud while continuing to attract the skilled talent our economy needs. Immigration has always been a cornerstone of Canada’s success and we remain committed to welcoming the best and brightest to Canada so that everyone has access to the quality jobs, housing and support they need to succeed,” said Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration and Refugees and Citizenship.

Does the change affect candidates who have already applied for PR?

The changes will come into force in spring 2025 and apply to all express system applicants. However, the changes will not be implemented for those who have already applied or been invited to apply.

The Express Entry System is a lucrative opportunity for Indians to settle abroad in North American countries. It also allows Canada to meet its labor needs by providing permanent residency to skilled workers from other countries.