Starting November 3, 2026, a qualifying job offer in an eligible high-wage occupation may earn 50, 70 or 100 Express Entry CRS points. The points depend on the occupation’s wage level under its National Occupational Classification (NOC) code, compared with the overall median wage in Canada. They are not based on the candidate’s individual salary. Canada.ca
How many CRS points can a job offer receive?
| Occupation’s wage level | Job offer CRS points |
|---|---|
| At least 2 times the average median wage | 100 |
| At least 1.5 times, but less than 2 times | 70 |
| At least 1.3 times, but less than 1.5 times | 50 |
| Below the eligible high-wage levels | 0 |
These are job-offer points under the new Labour Market Integration factor. If a candidate qualifies for points through both a job offer and Canadian work experience, IRCC will use the option that gives the higher score. The points will not be combined. Canada.ca
Will an LMIA still be required?
Starting November 3, an LMIA will not be required for a qualifying job offer to count toward CRS points or certain Express Entry program eligibility requirements. Having an LMIA will not provide additional CRS points or give a profile priority.
This change applies to Express Entry job-offer rules. It does not eliminate LMIA requirements for every Canadian work permit or hiring situation. Program eligibility and CRS job-offer points are also assessed separately: a valid offer may help meet certain program requirements even if it does not qualify for CRS job-offer points. Canada.ca
What makes a job offer eligible?
To receive job-offer CRS points, the offer must be valid under Express Entry and be for a position in an eligible high-wage occupation. It must generally be for full-time, continuous work in Canada for at least one year after the candidate becomes a permanent resident.
An officer will also assess whether the offer is genuine. This includes reviewing the employer’s business activity and ability to meet the offer’s terms, as well as whether the candidate is qualified and likely to perform the work. Canada.ca
What should candidates do before November 3?
IRCC advises candidates who may qualify for job-offer points to review their Express Entry profiles and make sure their job-offer information is included and accurate before November 3. Canada.ca
IRCC also says that, after November 3, the online system may still ask candidates with a qualifying job offer but no LMIA to enter LMIA details. If that instruction applies to your offer, IRCC’s published instructions say to select “Yes” for a positive LMIA and enter the specified placeholder information. Follow IRCC’s instructions for the post-November 3 system; don’t enter placeholder details unless they apply to your case. Canada.ca
Frequently asked questions
Will an LMIA give me extra CRS points after November 3?
No. An LMIA will not provide extra CRS points or give your profile priority under the new rules.
Can a job offer matter if it does not earn CRS job-offer points?
Yes. A valid job offer may still help meet certain program eligibility requirements, even if it is not in an eligible high-wage occupation for CRS job-offer points.
Does every job offer qualify for CRS points?
No. The offer must meet Express Entry requirements and be for a position in an eligible high-wage occupation. IRCC will also assess whether the offer is genuine.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Check IRCC’s current instructions or consult a qualified immigration professional about your circumstances.
