On November 3, 2026, two key changes come into effect in the Express Entry program: a new labour market integration factor is introduced, awarding points for Canadian experience in high-wage occupations, and job offer points return — now without an LMIA requirement. This can significantly boost CRS for candidates with the right experience or a confirmed job offer.

Canadian experience in high-wage occupations: up to 150 points

IRCC is introducing a labour market integration factor, which is understood as work experience in Canada in high-wage occupations. Candidates with this experience receive additional points depending on the occupation level.

To receive points, you must have a minimum of 12 months of qualifying Canadian work experience in the specified occupations. High-wage status is determined by the national median salary for the specific NOC code, not by the salary in your contract.

IRCC has divided high-wage occupations into three levels:

  • Level 1 (double the median salary) — 70 points
  • Level 2 (1.5 times the median salary) — 40 points
  • Level 3 — 20 points

IRCC has already published the complete list of occupations across all three categories.

Job offer points return: up to 100 points without LMIA

Job offer points have returned to the Express Entry system. The number of points depends on the high-wage level of the occupation in the offer:

  • Level 1 — 100 points
  • Level 2 — 70 points
  • Level 3 — 50 points

A critical difference from the past: LMIA is no longer required. The job offer must be genuine and meet IRCC requirements, but the Market Feedback process (LMIA) is no longer mandatory. High-wage status of the occupation is again determined by the NOC code and national median salary, regardless of your actual salary in the offer.

Which option IRCC will choose

Candidates cannot simultaneously apply points for Canadian experience and for a job offer under the new factor. If you have both experience and a confirmed job offer, IRCC will choose the option that gives the higher result and award you those points.

Profile reassessment and timelines

For existing Express Entry profiles, the system will automatically recalculate CRS points based on the new rules. This process may take up to two weeks. During the transition period, invitation rounds will be paused.

Candidates with a qualifying job offer are advised to check their profiles before November 3 and update their job offer information if not already done. Changes may significantly impact your CRS, so ensure your NOC code is correct and your profile contains current information.

What to verify before November 3

Before the new rules take effect, check whether your NOC code is on the list of high-wage occupations in one of the three categories. If you have a job offer, make sure its NOC code truly qualifies as a high-wage position. Any errors in the NOC code or outdated information can lead to incorrect point calculations.