Express Entry CRS Changes November 2026: No LMIA
Starting November 3, Express Entry candidates can earn extra CRS points for high-wage job offers and Canadian work experience, with no LMIA required.
Sara Ahmadi
Last updated
A Fresh Way to Climb the Rankings
Canada just opened up a new path to a higher Express Entry score. On October 16, Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab announced changes that reward exactly the kind of experience many candidates already have. Starting November 3, 2026, you can earn extra Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for eligible Canadian work experience or a qualifying high-wage job offer.
No LMIA Needed Anymore
Getting a job offer to count used to mean an employer first had to secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a lengthy process that discouraged many employers from even trying. That barrier is gone for these new points. A qualifying job offer in a high-wage occupation can now earn you points without your employer needing an LMIA at all.
What Counts as "High-Wage"
IRCC defines a high-wage occupation as one where the typical pay is at least 1.3 times the median wage for all workers in Canada, think roles like engineers and electricians. IRCC will keep this list updated using Job Bank postings, Labour Force Survey data, and recent census figures. The list is based on what an occupation typically pays, not on any one person's individual salary.
Already in the Pool? Here's the Timing
If you already have a profile, don't worry about resubmitting anything. IRCC will automatically recalculate scores for existing candidates, including points for Canadian work experience, once the new rules take effect. If you have a qualifying job offer, update your profile with the details before November 3 so it's counted. Expect a short pause in invitation rounds, up to two weeks, while recalculations are processed.
What to Do Right Now
This is good news if you've been building a career in Canada or working toward a high-wage offer. Candidates who review their profile now and update their job offer details before November 3 give themselves the best chance of seeing a higher score right away. Even if none of this applies to you yet, it's a good moment to double check your profile is accurate and current.
Do I need a new LMIA to get these points?
No. A labour market impact assessment is no longer required for a qualifying high-wage job offer to count toward these new CRS points or to meet the job offer requirement under the Federal Skilled Worker and Federal Skilled Trades programs. IRCC will still confirm the job offer is genuine.
What makes an occupation "high-wage"?
It's based on typical pay for that occupation, not your personal salary. An occupation qualifies if its median wage is at least 1.3 times the overall Canadian median, and IRCC updates the list using recent wage and labour market data.
Will my score change automatically?
Yes, for most candidates. If you're already in the Express Entry pool, your score will be recalculated automatically, including new points for Canadian work experience. If you have a high-wage job offer, update your profile before November 3 so it's included.
Check Your Express Entry Profile →
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