Maple News reports a major shift in Canada’s Express Entry system following the recent removal of Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points previously granted for arranged employment. This policy change, implemented on March 25, 2025, has significantly altered the landscape for thousands of immigration hopefuls.
As a result of the change, candidates who had previously benefited from a job offer in Canada saw their CRS scores decrease by either 50 or 200 points. The adjusted scores have significantly impacted applicants’ likelihood of receiving invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Many candidates who were previously in the top scoring tiers are now redistributed into lower score brackets.
The most pronounced impact was felt in the 501–600 CRS score range, which saw a sharp decline of 5,740 profiles. Similarly, 1,618 profiles dropped from the 491–500 range, and 984 left the 481–490 tier. In total, these three brackets—representing the top 10% of all Express Entry candidates—lost 8,342 profiles between March 16 and April 14, 2025.
While some profile expirations may be attributed to routine eligibility timelines or withdrawals, the dramatic nature of these changes strongly correlates with the policy shift. The profiles impacted haven’t necessarily been removed from the system, but have likely moved to lower score categories, effectively shaking up the pool’s competitive dynamics.
Despite the mass movement at the top, the total number of active profiles in the Express Entry pool actually grew by 7,373 during the same period. This reflects sustained interest in Canada’s immigration system as well as the influx of new candidates entering the pool.
The elimination of bonus CRS points for arranged employment is part of a broader effort by the Canadian government to level the playing field, giving more candidates a fair chance regardless of connections with Canadian employers. However, this change also increases competition at mid-level CRS ranges, potentially extending wait times for many applicants.
As Express Entry draws continue to evolve, candidates are encouraged to monitor their CRS scores and explore alternative pathways to boost their rankings, such as provincial nominations or French language proficiency.
Maple News will continue to track these developments and provide expert analysis on changes affecting the Express Entry system and Canadian immigration at large.