Express Entry applies new CRS rules from November 3, with draws paused for up to two weeks
Key points
- From November 3, Express Entry CRS adds a Labour Market Integration Factor
- Qualifying job offers without an LMIA regain points; high-wage Canadian work experience earns additional points
- IRCC pauses all draws for up to two weeks; cut-off scores may rise noticeably
Canada's immigration minister Lena Metlege Diab announced on October 16 that Express Entry would add a Labour Market Integration Factor to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The rules took effect November 3, restoring points for qualifying job offers without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and adding points for high-wage Canadian work experience. IRCC is pausing all draws for up to two weeks while it recalculates scores, and the report expects cut-off scores could rise noticeably after draws resume. For reference only, not legal advice.
What employers should do
- Check whether open roles fall into high-wage occupations and assess the impact of job offers without an LMIA on candidates
- Alert affected candidates to the draw pause and possible score changes
Policy details
- Jurisdiction
- Canada
- Status
- In effect
- Effective date
- 2026-11-03
- Employers covered
- Candidates applying through Express Entry and Canadian employers making job offers
- Official source
- View official source ↗
Original report: INC News ↗Edited with AI assistance. Facts are based on official sources and original reports. For information only; not legal, immigration or insurance advice.