Will CEC Scores Come Down After LMIA Points Removal in Canada (2025)? A Deep Dive into Canada’s Updated Express Entry System
- Kanwarjit Singh Lall (RCIC)
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Canada’s immigration system is undergoing a major shift in 2025 with the removal of additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-supported job offers.
This change has sparked a crucial question:
Will the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates decrease as a result?
Let’s break it down and analyze how this update could impact Express Entry draws, especially for CEC candidates.
Understanding the LMIA Points Removal
Previously, candidates with an LMIA-backed job offer could gain up to 50 or 200 additional CRS points, depending on the occupation level. This often gave them a significant advantage in Express Entry draws. However, as of April 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has decided to eliminate these bonus points, leveling the playing field for candidates who do not have an LMIA-based job offer.
Why Is Canada Removing LMIA Points?
The government aims to:
Prioritize in-Canada work experience and skills over employer sponsorship.
Reduce dependency on LMIAs, which were sometimes misused to boost CRS scores artificially.
Create a fairer and more competitive Express Entry system for skilled workers.
Will CRS Scores Drop for CEC Candidates?
With LMIA-based candidates losing their extra points, overall CRS cut-off scores may decrease, potentially benefiting those applying through the CEC pathway. Here’s why:
1. Reduced Competition from LMIA Holders
o Many high-scoring candidates who previously benefited from LMIA points may now see their scores drop.
o This could lead to lower cut-off scores in future Express Entry draws, allowing more CEC candidates to qualify.
2. Stronger Emphasis on Canadian Work Experience
o Since many CEC applicants already have Canadian work experience, they may now have a better chance of being invited.
o The focus is shifting towards human capital factors like age, education, and official language proficiency rather than employer sponsorship.
3. More Invitations for CEC-Specific Draws?
o In the past, IRCC has conducted CEC-specific draws when needed.
o If overall CRS scores become more competitive, IRCC may increase CEC-focused draws to ensure enough skilled workers transition to permanent residence.
Challenges for LMIA-Based Applicants
While CEC candidates may benefit, those relying on LMIAs will face new challenges:
They lose the 50-200 point boost, meaning they must now depend solely on their core CRS score.
Employers may find it harder to retain foreign workers, as candidates with job offers won’t have a competitive advantage in Express Entry.
Final Thoughts: A More Balanced System?
The removal of LMIA points is a significant step toward fairness in Canada’s Express Entry system. While CEC candidates might see lower CRS cut-off scores, the overall impact will depend on other factors like targeted draws and changes in immigration policy.
Are you a CEC applicant wondering how this change affects your chances? Stay updated with immigration trends and make sure your profile is optimized for maximum CRS points.
Need Expert Guidance?
If you're navigating Express Entry changes and need professional advice, Admire Immigration Services is here to help! Contact us today to explore your best options for Canadian PR.
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