Canada’s Express Entry system is undergoing a major change that will impact many aspiring immigrants. As of December 18, 2024, International Experience Canada (IEC) employer-specific work permit holders will no longer receive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for arranged employment.

This change primarily affects candidates in the Young Professionals category and could lower their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Additionally, a complete removal of bonus CRS points for arranged employment is set to take effect in spring 2025.

If you’re an IEC work permit holder or considering applying through Express Entry, here’s everything you need to know about this update and how it may impact your immigration journey.

What’s Changing for IEC Work Permit Holders?

Previously, foreign workers under the Young Professionals stream of IEC could gain 50 or 200 CRS points for arranged employment, depending on their National Occupational Classification (NOC) level:

• 200 CRS points for NOC TEER 0 (managerial roles in major group 00)
• 50 CRS points for other eligible NOC jobs

However, under the new rule:

• If your IEC work permit was issued after December 18, 2024, you will no longer receive CRS points for arranged employment.
• This only applies to the Young Professionals category, as it was the only IEC stream that provided CRS points for job offers.
• Candidates who received their work permit before December 18, 2024, will still get CRS points—as long as their job offer meets the eligibility criteria.

This change means that IEC work permit holders may struggle to maintain a competitive CRS score, making it harder to receive an ITA for permanent residency.

Why Is the Canadian Government Making This Change?

While the government hasn’t provided a detailed reason for implementing this change before the broader CRS update in spring 2025, there are some key factors behind it:

• Preventing LMIA Fraud – The government aims to reduce potential fraud related to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs), which are often required for job offers.
• Streamlining Express Entry – Canada is working to ensure that only highly skilled workers with competitive CRS scores receive ITAs.
• Preparing for Larger Changes in 2025 – The government has already confirmed that all bonus CRS points for arranged employment will be eliminated in spring 2025.

This means that even non-IEC candidates who rely on CRS points for job offers will lose them next year. IEC work permit holders are simply facing this change earlier than others.

How This Affects Your Express Entry Chances

Losing 50–200 CRS points can have a major impact on your Express Entry ranking. Without these extra points, many IEC candidates could find themselves below the cut-off score for receiving an ITA.

Here’s what this change could mean for your immigration prospects:

• Lower chances of receiving an ITA – Candidates who relied on job offers to boost their CRS scores may now struggle to compete.
• Longer wait times for PR – A lower CRS score means you might have to wait longer for an ITA.
• More competition in the Express Entry pool – With fewer candidates receiving arranged employment points, other factors like work experience and education will become even more important.

What Can IEC Work Permit Holders Do Next?

If you’re affected by this change, don’t panic—there are still several ways to boost your CRS score and improve your chances of securing permanent residency:

• Gain More Work Experience – Canadian work experience is still highly valuable in Express Entry. If possible, work longer to gain extra points.
• Improve Your Language Scores – Higher IELTS or CELPIP scores can add significant CRS points. Consider retaking the test if needed.
• Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Many provinces offer PNP programs that provide an extra 600 CRS points, guaranteeing an ITA.
• Explore Other PR Pathways – Programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) or Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) may offer alternative routes to PR.

The early removal of CRS points for IEC work permit holders is a big change that will affect many Express Entry candidates. If you’re applying through Express Entry and relying on arranged employment points, now is the time to explore other ways to increase your CRS score.

With a full removal of CRS job offer points coming in spring 2025, all candidates should start preparing for these new immigration policies now. Need expert guidance on your Express Entry application? Contact ImmigCanada today to explore your best options for Canadian immigration!

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