Canada Express Entry 2025: 825 PR Invites After LMIA Points Cut

A New Chapter for Express Entry Applicants

On April 14, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its first Express Entry draw since removing CRS points for arranged job offers. A total of 825 candidates were selected to apply for permanent residency through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in this draw. To be eligible, candidates needed a CRS score of at least 764 and had to have submitted their profiles by August 17, 2024.

This draw signals a big change in how applicants are selected. Without the bonus points from LMIA-backed job offers—previously worth up to 200 CRS points—many candidates are now revisiting their plans and figuring out how to stay competitive based on other factors.

What the LMIA Change Really Means

Since March 25, 2025, job offers backed by an LMIA no longer add CRS points to your Express Entry profile. This change aims to curb misuse and make the process fairer for everyone.

Without those bonus points, once worth up to 200, more weight now falls on your age, education, language scores, and Canadian work experience. It’s a shift that requires many applicants to rethink their strategies.

As the Best Immigration Consultants in Chandigarh for Canada, we help you evaluate your strengths and guide you in adapting your profile to stay competitive in this new landscape.

Who Was Invited to This Draw?

The Express Entry draw on April 14, 2025, focused exclusively on candidates who had already received a nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). A provincial nomination gives applicants an automatic boost of 600 CRS points, which places them well above the required score of 764 in this round.

To qualify, candidates needed to have submitted their Express Entry profiles before August 17, 2024. This eligibility window shows IRCC’s effort to manage transition periods carefully and fairly, ensuring that long-standing candidates are not overlooked as policies continue to evolve.

How This Impacts Your PR Strategy

If you were counting on CRS points from a job offer, it’s time to focus on other parts of your application. Language test scores, education credentials, and Canadian work experience now carry more weight than ever. Provincial nominations are also key if you want a major CRS boost.

We work closely with clients to help them explore PNP streams suited to their backgrounds. As experienced Canada PR Consultants in Chandigarh, we ensure your application reflects the strongest version of your profile.

What You Can Do Next

With Express Entry draws growing more competitive, it’s essential to stay prepared. Keep your language scores up to date, ensure your ECA is valid, and review your profile to match PNP criteria.

Losing LMIA points may feel like a setback, but it also creates a more level playing field. Now, your chances depend more on your qualifications, skills, education, and experience, rather than a job offer. A focused, well-prepared profile matters more than ever.

Final Thoughts: Adapting to Change

Canada’s immigration policies are constantly evolving. What doesn’t change is the need for a strong, accurate, and timely application. The latest Express Entry draw is a reminder that staying informed and adjusting your approach based on policy changes can make a real difference in your chances.

At TIIC Overseas, we help you navigate these changes with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re applying under the Express Entry system or through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), we provide end-to-end support that aligns with the latest rules.

If you’ve been searching for Canada Express Entry Consultants in Chandigarh who understand the shifting landscape, we’re here to help you move forward—strategically and successfully.