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Tag: express entry

  • IRCC Announces Major Change to Express Entry: No More CRS Points for Job Offers

    IRCC Announces Major Change to Express Entry: No More CRS Points for Job Offers

    Effective today, March 25, 2025, job offers will no longer contribute additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points to candidates in the Express Entry pool — a change expected to reshape how applicants plan their path to permanent residency. This change follows IRCC’s December 23, 2024 announcement aimed at curbing fraud related to job offers and LMIAs.

    The measure specifically targets the misuse of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and arranged employment offers, which have increasingly been subject to fraudulent practices. By removing the incentive to purchase fake or unverifiable job offers, IRCC aims to uphold the integrity of the immigration process and ensure that only legitimate candidates are rewarded.

    The policy will affect:

    • Current Express Entry candidates with valid job offers: Points associated with their arranged employment will be deducted from their CRS score starting March 25. The update may take a few days to reflect in the profile.
    • Future applicants: As of the effective date, new profiles will no longer receive CRS points for job offers.
    • Candidates without qualifying job offers: No additional points will be awarded moving forward.

    However, applicants with an active Invitation To Apply or ITA that has not expired or been declined will not be affected by the change. Their invitation remains valid for that specific round.

    Job Offers Still Matter

    While job offers will no longer affect CRS scores, they remain relevant for other federal and provincial immigration programs. IRCC clarified that arranged employment will still play a role in:

    • The Federal Skilled Worker Program (as part of its selection grid),
    • The Federal Skilled Trades Program, and
    • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), where a valid job offer can be a key criterion for eligibility or selection.

    Express Entry profiles should still include any valid job offer details to maintain eligibility for these streams.

    For many Filipinos in Canada, particularly temporary foreign workers and international students hoping to transition to permanent residency, this represents a paradigm shift. With job offers becoming a less influential factor, candidates must now invest more effort in improving their core profile.

    While this update may seem discouraging to some, it ultimately aims to protect the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. Fraudulent practices involving job offers not only undermine fairness but also put genuine applicants at risk.

    For more information on Canadian immigration programs or to book a consultation, reach out to JCA LAW—your trusted Filipino legal experts in Canada!

    Contact us for a consultation
    Visit our website to learn more

    Email us at immigration@jcalaw.ca for more details

    Source:
    IRCC

    Note: Immigration policies and procedures are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult the official IRCC website or seek professional advice for the most current information.

     

  • IRCC announces major updates on the Express Entry Category-Based Draws

    Express Entry UpdatesThe Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced significant updates to the Express Entry category-based selection, a move that will impact thousands of skilled workers, including Filipinos in Canada. These changes aim to align Canada’s immigration system with current labor market demands. The most significant updates include:

    • Education professionals are now prioritized – More teaching and support roles added.
    • Healthcare occupations expanded – Additional medical and social service jobs included.
    • Trades category grows – More construction, skilled trades, and food service jobs now eligible.
    • Transport category removed – No more priority for truck drivers and related jobs.
    • STEM occupations cut back – Nineteen occupations removed, leaving a smaller list.
    📘 Comprehensive Guide: For a complete overview of all Canadian immigration pathways for Filipinos, including Express Entry, PNP, Family Sponsorship, and more, read our Filipino Immigrant Guide to Canada – From Visa to PR (2026).

    For Filipinos in Canada, these updates present new opportunities and challenges. To qualify for an Express Entry category-based draw, candidates must meet the following requirements:

    • You must have at least 6 months of full-time, continuous work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work) within the last 3 years.
    • Your work experience must be in one occupation from the list of eligible NOC codes below.
    • Your experience can be gained in Canada or abroad.

    If you meet these requirements, and your job falls under one of the priority categories, you may have a higher chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency under the category-based Express Entry draws.

    Education Category Added – More Opportunities for Filipino Teachers and Assistants

    For the first time, education professionals have been added to Express Entry’s category-based draws. This means teachers, assistants, and special education instructors now have a higher chance of being invited for permanent residency.

    Who Qualifies?

    The following National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes are now eligible:

    Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
    Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants 43100 3
    Instructors of persons with disabilities 42203 2
    Early childhood educators and assistants 42202 2
    Elementary school and kindergarten teachers 41221 1
    Secondary school teachers 41220 1

     

    Many Filipinos work as early childhood educators and teacher assistants across Canada. If you are already in this field or planning to apply, now is a great time to update your Express Entry profile and ensure you meet the requirements.

    Healthcare Category Expanded – More Jobs for Medical and Social Services Workers

    Canada continues to prioritize healthcare occupations, adding more roles to Express Entry. Below is the full list of eligible healthcare jobs under the category-based draws for 2025.

    Full List of Healthcare Jobs Eligible for Express Entry (2025):

    Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
    Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians 32104 2
    Audiologists and speech language pathologists 31112 1
    Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological techs 32123 2
    Chiropractors 31201 1
    Dental hygienists and dental therapists 32111 2
    Dentists 31110 1
    Dieticians and nutritionists 31121 1
    General practitioners and family physicians 31102 1
    Licensed practical nurses 32101 2
    Massage therapists 32201 2
    Medical laboratory assistants and related techs 33101 3
    Medical laboratory technologists 32120 2
    Medical radiation technologists 32121 2
    Medical sonographers 32122 2
    Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates 33102 3
    Nurse practitioners 31302 1
    Nursing coordinators and supervisors 31300 1
    Occupational therapists 31203 1
    Optometrists 31111 1
    Other medical technologists and technicians 32129 2
    Other professional occupations in health diagnosing & treating 31209 1
    Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment 32109 2
    Paramedical occupations 32102 2
    Pharmacists 31120 1
    Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants 33103 3
    Pharmacy technicians 32124 2
    Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health pros 31303 1
    Physiotherapists 31202 1
    Psychologists 31200 1
    Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301 1
    Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists & cardiopulmonary technologists 32103 2
    Social and community service workers 42201 2
    Social workers 41300 1
    Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100 1
    Specialists in surgery 31101 1
    Therapists in counseling & specialized therapies 41301 1
    Veterinarians 31103 1

    Trades Category Expanded – Cooks and More Jobs Added

    Canada has expanded its trades category, adding cooks and other skilled workers to support infrastructure and food service demands.

    Full List of Eligible Trades in Express Entry (2025):

    Here is the table for the eligible occupations with their 2021 NOC codes and TEER categories:

    Occupation 2021 NOC Code 2021 TEER Category
    Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services 82021 2
    Floor covering installers 73113 3
    Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) 73112 3
    Roofers and shinglers 73110 3
    Concrete finishers 73100 3
    Other technical trades and related occupations 72999 2
    Water well drillers 72501 2
    Electrical mechanics 72422 2
    Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics 72402 2
    Heavy-duty equipment mechanics 72401 2
    Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics 72400 2
    Bricklayers 72320 2
    Cabinetmakers 72311 2
    Carpenters 72310 2
    Gas fitters 72302 2
    Plumbers 72300 2
    Industrial electricians 72201 2
    Electricians (except industrial and power system) 72200 2
    Welders and related machine operators 72106 2
    Sheet metal workers 72102 2
    Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors 72100 2
    Home building and renovation managers 70011 0
    Construction managers 70010 0
    Cooks 63200 3
    Construction estimators 22303 2

     

    Transport Category Removed – What This Means for Workers

    The transport category has been completely removed from Express Entry. Truck drivers and other transport workers will no longer receive priority.

    Alternative Pathways:

    • Check Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) (e.g., Manitoba and Saskatchewan still prioritize transport workers).
    • Look for employer-sponsored PR options.
    • Increase CRS score to compete in the general Express Entry pool.

    STEM Category Reduced – Fewer Opportunities for Tech and Engineering Jobs

    Canada has removed 19 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) occupations from Express Entry. Below is the remaining list of STEM jobs still eligible.

    Remaining STEM Occupations in Express Entry (2025):

    Job Title NOC Code TEER Level
    Architecture and science managers 20011 0
    Civil engineering technologists and technicians 22300 2
    Civil Engineers 21300 1
    Cybersecurity specialists 21220 1
    Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians 22310 2
    Electrical and electronics engineers 21310 1
    Geological Engineers 21331 1
    Industrial and manufacturing engineers 21321 1
    Insurance agents and brokers 63100 3
    Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians 22301 2
    Mechanical Engineers 21301 1

    What to Prepare If You Are in a Newly Added NOC Code

    • Update your Express Entry profile with your correct NOC code.
    • Prepare work experience letters, education credentials, and language test results.
      .

    Need Help? JCA LAW Can Assist You!

    Book a consultation with JCA LAW today! Canada’s immigration system is changing fast—don’t miss your opportunity for PR.

     

    Sources:

    IRCC

  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Under Express Entry: A Pathway to Canadian PR for Filipinos

    PNP Express Entry PR

    Canada remains a sought-after destination for skilled workers worldwide, including many Filipinos looking for better opportunities. One of the ways to get permanent residency in Canada is through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), integrated within the Express Entry system. This program empowers provinces and territories to nominate those who can significantly contribute to their local economies.

    📘 Complete Immigration Guide: PNP is just one of many pathways to Canadian PR. For a comprehensive overview of all immigration options for Filipinos, including Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, Caregiver Programs, and more, read our Filipino Immigrant Guide to Canada – From Visa to PR (2026).

    Understanding the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

    PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who:

    • Possess the skills, education, and work experience to bolster their economy.
    • Intend to reside in that particular province or territory.
    • Aspire to become permanent residents of Canada.

    Each province and territory has its own “streams” or immigration programs targeting specific groups. For example, certain streams may focus on:

    • Students
    • Business professionals
    • Skilled workers
    • Semi-skilled workers

    The Express Entry System

    Express Entry is an online system that manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs:

    1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
    2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
    3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

    Provinces and territories can nominate candidates through Express Entry by selecting individuals from the pool who meet their specific labor market needs.

    How Does the PNP Work with Express Entry?

    There are two primary pathways to apply:

    1. Express Entry Process

    Step 1: Check Your Eligibility. Ensure you qualify for both:

    • The PNP of the desired province or territory.
    • One of the three federal programs managed through Express Entry.

    Step 2: Obtain a Nomination

    • Direct Application. Contact the province or territory directly and apply for a nomination.
    • Express Entry Profile. Create an Express Entry profile and indicate your interest in specific provinces or territories. If a province or territory sends a “notification of interest” to your account, you can then apply for a nomination.

    Step 3: Update Your Profile. If nominated, update your Express Entry profile to reflect this. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, significantly enhancing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

    Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residence. Upon receiving an invitation, submit your application for permanent residence online.

    2. Non-Express Entry Process

    Step 1: Check Your Eligibility. Confirm you meet the criteria for the PNP of your chosen province or territory.

    Step 2: Obtain a Nomination. Apply directly to the province or territory for a nomination.

    Step 3: Apply for Permanent Residence. After securing a nomination, apply for permanent residence through the non-Express Entry process.

    Choosing a Province or Territory

    Each province and territory (except Nunavut and Quebec) has its own PNP with specific streams and criteria. It’s essential to research and select the one that aligns with your qualifications and aspirations. Here are some provinces and their respective immigration websites:

    Benefits for Filipinos

    For Filipinos aiming to establish a life in Canada, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers several advantages. Many provinces have immigration streams tailored to specific skills and experiences that align with common Filipino professions, making it easier to qualify for nomination. Additionally, various provinces have thriving Filipino communities that could provide a supportive environment. Most importantly, securing a provincial nomination significantly boosts an applicant’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, greatly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence through the Express Entry system.

    The Provincial Nominee Program, in conjunction with the Express Entry system, provides a viable pathway for Filipinos to achieve permanent residency in Canada. By understanding the processes and applying to the appropriate provincial immigration programs, you may have a better chance at PR.

    For personalized assistance and to navigate the complexities of the application process, consider reaching out to immigration professionals or legal experts familiar with Canadian immigration laws.

    Note: Immigration policies and procedures are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult the official IRCC website or seek professional advice for the most current information.

    Sources:

    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees.html

    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees/express-entry.html

    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees/non-express-entry.html

     

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Your Pathway to PR in Canada

    Canada offers various immigration pathways for skilled workers, and one of the fastest and most accessible options is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This program is designed for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and wish to transition to permanent residency.

    What is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?

    The Canadian Experience Class is an immigration program under the Express Entry system. It allows skilled workers who have already gained professional work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residence. The program is ideal for temporary foreign workers and international graduates who have accumulated at least one year of work experience in Canada.

    Who is Eligible to Apply?

    To qualify for the Canadian Experience Class, applicants must meet the following criteria:

    1. Work Experience

    • Applicants must have at least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
    • The work must be in one or more of these job categories under the National Occupational Classification (NOC):
      • TEER 0: Managerial jobs (e.g., project managers, marketing managers)
      • TEER 1: Professional jobs requiring a degree (e.g., engineers, accountants, doctors)
      • TEER 2 & 3: Skilled trades and technical jobs (e.g., electricians, chefs, IT specialists)
    • The work experience must have been gained legally while on a valid work permit.

    2. Language Proficiency

    • Applicants must meet the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels:
      • CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0 and TEER 1 jobs
      • CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2 and TEER 3 jobs
    • Accepted language tests include IELTS, CELPIP (for English), TEF, or TCF (for French).

    3. Residency Requirement

    • Applicants must plan to live outside Quebec, as Quebec has its own immigration programs.

    4. Education (Optional but Beneficial)

    • There is no education requirement for CEC. However, holding a Canadian degree, diploma, or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign education can improve the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in Express Entry.

    Benefits of the Canadian Experience Class

    • Applications are usually processed within six months under the Express Entry system, making it one of the fastest routes to permanent residency.
    • Unlike other Express Entry programs, CEC applicants do not need to provide proof of settlement funds.
    • Applicants with Canadian work experience receive higher CRS scores, increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

    How to Apply for the Canadian Experience Class

    1. Check Your Eligibility. Ensure you meet the work experience, language, and residency requirements.
    2. Create an Express Entry Profile. Submit details about your work experience, education, and language test results.
    3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). If your CRS score is high enough, you will be invited to apply for permanent residence.
    4. Submit a Complete Application. Provide documents such as work reference letters, language test results, and medical and police clearances.
    5. Wait for Processing. Most applications are processed within six months.
    6. Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). If approved, you can transition to permanent resident status in Canada.

    How JCA Law Can Help

    If you are a Filipino in Canada with skilled work experience and are considering permanent residency, JCA Law can assist you in:

    • Evaluating your eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class
    • Preparing a strong Express Entry profile
    • Ensuring your application is complete and error-free
    • Guiding you through the next steps after receiving permanent residence

    Applying for permanent residency can be complex, but with expert legal guidance, you can avoid mistakes and maximize your chances of success.

    The Canadian Experience Class is one of the best pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers already in Canada. If you meet the requirements, applying through Express Entry can be your ticket to building a future in Canada.

    Need help with your immigration application? Contact JCA Law today for expert assistance!

    Sources:
    IRCC

  • Latest Express Entry Draw: Minimum CRS Score Set at 527

    January 23 2025 Express Entry
    January 23 2025 Express Entry

    On January 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the latest Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw, inviting candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 527 or higher to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Canada. A total of 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued.

    The CEC program provides a pathway for skilled workers already in Canada who wish to transition to PR. To be eligible, applicants must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years, gained under a valid work permit. They must also meet the required language proficiency levels in English or French and plan to live outside of Quebec. Unlike other Express Entry programs, the CEC does not require proof of settlement funds, making it an attractive option for those already working in Canada. 

    If you have Canadian work experience and meet the eligibility criteria, this could be your opportunity to secure permanent status in the country.

    At JCA Law, we help skilled workers navigate Express Entry applications, improve CRS scores, and provide immigration consultations. If you received an ITA or want to know your chances in future draws, contact us for guidance!

    Contact us for a consultation
    Visit our website to learn more

    Email us at info@filipinolawyer.ca for more details

    Don’t miss this opportunity—your pathway to Canadian PR starts now!