LMIA points removal and cec draw prediction 2025

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?

  • If you were relying on job offer points, your CRS score just dropped.

  • CEC draw cut-offs are expected to fall below 500 in 2025.

  • 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:

  • Healthcare

  • STEM (Tech, Engineering, AI)

  • Skilled Trades

  • 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)

  • A CLB 10 (IELTS 8+) gives maximum points.

  • Even a small improvement (CLB 9 → CLB 10) can add 12-25 points.

2. Learn French (If Possible)

  • NCLC 7 in French + CLB 5 in English = +50 CRS points

  • Recent French-language draws had CRS cut-offs as low as 379!

3. Consider a PNP (If Eligible)

  • Ontario (OINP), Alberta (AINP), BC (BC PNP) offer 600 CRS points.

  • Some PNPs don’t require a job offer.

4. Stay Updated on Draw Trends

  • Subscribe to IRCC updates & follow licensed consultants (like us!).

  • Check CRS cut-offs after each draw.

5. Avoid Misrepresentation

  • Some candidates may falsely claim job offers—this leads to bans.

  • 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?

  • To reduce LMIA system abuse

  • To make Express Entry fairer

  • 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:

  1.  CRS cut-offs will drop (likely below 500).
  2.  French speakers & PNP candidates have an advantage.
  3.  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:

  1.  Maximizing language scores (IELTS/CELPIP CLB 10)
  2.  Learning French (NCLC 7+ = +50 CRS points)
  3.  Applying for a PNP (+600 points)
  4.  Gaining more Canadian work experience

3. Will IRCC still hold CEC-specific draws in 2025?

Yes, but they’ll likely prioritize:

  • High-scoring CEC candidates (strong language + experience)

  • French-speaking applicants

  • 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?

  • Retake language tests (Aim for CLB 10)

  • Add French proficiency (Even basic French helps)

  • Get a second degree/diploma (Extra education points)

  • Combine Canadian + foreign work experience (More points than Canadian-only experience)

 CTIV Immigration | Regulated by CICC | RCIC Sanjay Prasher (License #R514499)
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