New Update from IRCC: Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, has announced important changes to immigration policies.
These updates are focused on improving the integrity and efficiency of Canada’s immigration system.
The changes will impact those applying through Express Entry, as well as individuals seeking work or study permits at Canadian borders.
LMIA job offers lose points in Express Entry from Spring 2025
Starting in spring 2025, candidates in the Express Entry pool will no longer earn additional points for having a job offer backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
This change is part of Canada’s continued focus on improving the integrity of its immigration system and reducing fraud.
Why Is This Change Happening?
The LMIA process, which was intended to evaluate the need for hiring foreign workers when qualified Canadians are unavailable, has been misused by fraudsters.
By awarding extra Express Entry points for LMIA-backed job offers, the system unintentionally encouraged dishonest individuals to illegally buy or sell LMIAs in an attempt to boost their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Minister Marc Miller highlighted that removing these LMIA points would help reduce fraud and promote fairness and transparency in Canada’s immigration system.
“Immigration is crucial to our nation’s economic success and growth,” Miller said. “These changes ensure a responsive, well-managed, and equitable immigration process.”
Who Will Be Impacted?
This policy change will affect all individuals in the Express Entry pool, such as:
- Temporary workers in Canada aiming for permanent residency.
- New candidates entering the Express Entry system.
Candidates who have already received an ITA or have a pending application by spring 2025 will not be impacted.
Once the policy is enforced, it will apply to all candidates with LMIA-supported job offers in the pool.
What Does This Mean for Employers and Workers?
Employers who use LMIAs to support foreign workers’ permanent residency applications may need to rethink their approach.
Although LMIAs will still be necessary for obtaining temporary work permits, they will no longer offer a direct benefit in the Express Entry system.
For workers, this highlights the need to focus on showcasing their skills and qualifications in other ways, such as achieving high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores based on language proficiency, education, and work experience.
Canada Ends Flagpoling for Work and Study Permits
In another major change, the Canadian government has decided to end the practice of “flagpoling” for obtaining or renewing work and study permits.
Starting December 23, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET, individuals will no longer be able to use the method of leaving and re-entering the country at Canadian ports of entry to access immigration services.
What Is the Reason for Ending This Practice?
The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) processed over 69,300 flagpoling requests from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, with most cases occurring in busy regions like Southern Ontario, Quebec, and the Pacific.
The government states that flagpoling has strained important resources needed for border enforcement and caused delays for travelers crossing the border.
By discontinuing this practice, Canada intends to:
- Simplify border operations
- Strengthen border security
- Enhance the efficiency of immigration services overall
Key Insights to Remember
- Beginning in spring 2025, Express Entry candidates will no longer earn extra CRS points for job offers supported by an LMIA.
- As of December 23, 2024, flagpoling for work and study permits at Canadian ports of entry will be prohibited.
- These changes are designed to combat fraud, improve immigration procedures, and strengthen border security.
However, there will be some exceptions to the flagpoling rule, including for U.S. citizens and professionals covered under certain trade agreements.
How We Can Help
At IJS Immigration, we simplify your path to Canada. Whether it’s a work permit, study permit, or permanent residency, our expert team offers tailored solutions and guidance at every step.
We specialize in a variety of immigration programs, helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate Canada’s immigration system with confidence.
Get started today! Fill out our Free Assessment Form or contact us to explore your options.
Contact Us:
Email: info@ijsimmigration.com
Phone: +1 (437) 994-9494
