Maple News reports that while Canada’s Express Entry system has recently removed the additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points awarded for arranged employment, job offers remain a valuable asset for those aiming to secure Canadian permanent residency.
As of March 25, 2025, candidates in the Express Entry pool will no longer receive the 50 or 200 bonus CRS points previously granted for qualifying job offers. This change aligns with Canada’s effort to make the immigration process more balanced and focused on broader human capital attributes such as skills, education, and work experience.
Despite this adjustment, a job offer continues to play a vital role in numerous immigration pathways — especially through the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals based on their labour market needs and economic priorities.
PNPs consist of more than 80 immigration streams, and nearly half of them require candidates to have a valid job offer from a provincial employer. These job-offer-based streams are designed to fill region-specific labour shortages and ensure that newcomers can contribute directly to the local economy upon arrival.
Securing a job offer from an employer in a specific province can substantially increase the chances of receiving a provincial nomination. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to an Express Entry candidate’s CRS score — effectively guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence, despite the recent removal of points for arranged employment.
Moreover, PNPs are often tailored to target in-demand occupations and skilled workers, making them especially strategic routes for foreign nationals who align with a province’s labour priorities. In some cases, offers of employment are also necessary for employer-driven immigration streams outside of Express Entry.
In summary, while the removal of extra CRS points shifts the tactical focus somewhat, having a valid job offer remains a powerful tool in enhancing one’s eligibility and competitiveness within Canada’s immigration landscape.
Maple News continues to monitor Canada’s evolving immigration policies and will provide updates on what these changes mean for aspiring newcomers.