
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Draw Predictions 2025: What to Expect After LMIA Points Removal
By Sanjay Prasher (SP), M.B.A, RCIC
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (CICC #R514499)
Major Change: No More CRS Points for LMIA Job Offers
As of March 25, 2025, IRCC has removed the 50 or 200 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points previously awarded for:
- LMIA-supported job offers
- LMIA-exempt work permits
What does this mean for you?
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If you were relying on job offer points, your CRS score just dropped.
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CEC draw cut-offs are expected to fall below 500 in 2025.
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You must now focus on other CRS boosters like language, education, and work experience.
How Will This Affect CEC Draws in 2025?
1 Predicted CRS Cut-Off: Below 500 Given the recent trends and the current date (April 1, 2025), the next Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw is predicted to occur around April 4th, 2025, with a potential CRS cut-off score around 520+, based on previous patterns and the ongoing focus on in-Canada applicants
- Before March 2025: Many candidates had 490-530 CRS (with LMIA points).
- After March 2025: Experts predict CRS may drop to 450-490 in CEC draws.
2. Shift in IRCC’s Focus
Less emphasis on job offers, more on:
- Strong language scores (IELTS/CELPIP)
- Canadian work experience
- Higher education (Master’s/PhD)
- French proficiency (NCLC 7+)
3. Targeted Draws Will Play a Bigger Role
IRCC will prioritize candidates in high-demand sectors, such as:
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Healthcare
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STEM (Tech, Engineering, AI)
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Skilled Trades
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Early Childhood Education
5 Ways to Boost Your CRS Score Now
Strategy |
Potential CRS Gain |
Maximize Language Test Scores (CLB 10) |
+32 points per skill |
Add French Proficiency (NCLC 7+) |
+50 points (bilingual bonus) |
Get a Provincial Nomination (PNP) |
+600 points (guarantees ITA!) |
Complete a Second Degree/Diploma |
+15 to +30 points |
Combine Canadian + Foreign Work Exp. |
+25 to +50 points |
What Should CEC Candidates Do Next?
1. Retake Language Tests (If Below CLB 9)
2. Learn French (If Possible)
3. Consider a PNP (If Eligible)
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Ontario (OINP), Alberta (AINP), BC (BC PNP) offer 600 CRS points.
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Some PNPs don’t require a job offer.
4. Stay Updated on Draw Trends
5. Avoid Misrepresentation
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Some candidates may falsely claim job offers—this leads to bans.
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Work with an RCIC for legal, ethical strategies.
Need Help? Consult a Licensed RCIC
At CTIV Immigration, we help CEC candidates adapt to these changes and maximize their CRS scores.
Free CRS Evaluation: Book a Consultation
Call/WhatsApp: +1 416-857-0100
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Why Did IRCC Remove LMIA Points?
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To reduce LMIA system abuse
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To make Express Entry fairer
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To align with Canada’s 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan (lower targets)
Final Thoughts
The removal of LMIA points is a big change, but CEC candidates still have hope:
- CRS cut-offs will drop (likely below 500).
- French speakers & PNP candidates have an advantage.
- Strong language & work experience matter more than ever.
Your next steps:
- Recalculate your CRS score (without LMIA points).
- Improve your language scores or learn French.
- Explore PNPs if eligible.
Canada still needs skilled workers—just with a new strategy!
FAQs on CEC Draw Predictions After LMIA Points Removal (2025)
1. How much will CRS scores drop after LMIA points are removed?
Experts predict CEC draw cut-offs could fall below 500 in 2025, compared to previous scores of 520-550 for candidates with LMIA points. French-language draws may see even lower cut-offs (as low as 379).
2. Can I still get PR through Express Entry without LMIA points?
Yes! Focus on:
- Maximizing language scores (IELTS/CELPIP CLB 10)
- Learning French (NCLC 7+ = +50 CRS points)
- Applying for a PNP (+600 points)
- Gaining more Canadian work experience
3. Will IRCC still hold CEC-specific draws in 2025?
Yes, but they’ll likely prioritize:
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High-scoring CEC candidates (strong language + experience)
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French-speaking applicants
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Targeted draws (Healthcare, STEM, Trades)
4. Should I apply for a PNP instead of Express Entry now?
If your CRS score is below 480, a PNP may be your best option. Some provinces (like Ontario and Alberta) nominate CEC candidates without a job offer. A PNP nomination adds 600 CRS points, practically guaranteeing an ITA.
5. How can I improve my CRS score fast?
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Retake language tests (Aim for CLB 10)
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Add French proficiency (Even basic French helps)
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Get a second degree/diploma (Extra education points)
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Combine Canadian + foreign work experience (More points than Canadian-only experience)
CTIV Immigration | Regulated by CICC | RCIC Sanjay Prasher (License #R514499)
Trusted by thousands of successful immigrants since 2010.