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ARTICLE · 11 NOVEMBER 2026

Express Entry Update: New CRS Points For Canadian Work Experience And High-Wage Occupations

McMillan LLP
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will award additional Comprehensive Ranking System points to Express Entry candidates based on Canadian work experience or high-wage job offers starting November 3, 2026. The new Labour Market Integration factor eliminates LMIA requirements for job-offer points and may award up to 150 additional CRS points to eligible candidates with substantial Canadian labour market attachment.

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Effective November 3, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (“IRCC“) will award additional Comprehensive Ranking System (“CRS“) points to Express Entry candidates based on eligible Canadian work experience or a qualifying high-wage job offer.

By introducing a new “Labour Market Integration” factor,1 IRCC is placing greater emphasis on candidates with Canadian labour market attachment. The changes may significantly improve the competitiveness of foreign nationals with substantial Canadian work experience, particularly those working in designated high-wage occupations, and may recalibrate the competitive landscape within the Express Entry pool, potentially narrowing the gap for candidates such as experienced skilled workers whose CRS scores have depreciated due to age, relative to younger foreign skilled workers who, while less experienced, have historically benefited from higher age points.

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The foregoing provides only an overview and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are cautioned against making any decisions based on this material alone. Rather, specific legal advice should be obtained.

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