IRCC introduced the Labour Market Integration factor. Express Entry now awards points through Canadian work experience—with additional points for listed high-wage occupations—or through a qualifying job offer.

• Only one route is used: Canadian experience or a job offer, not both.
• Existing profiles are being recalculated, and invitation rounds are paused during the update.
• NOC selection must match the lead statement and actual duties.

IRCC’s CRS information and calculation tools have been updated for the new framework. Candidates should review their profile information before relying on a revised score.

• Check Canadian work history, dates and NOC codes.
• Include a genuine qualifying job offer where applicable.
• Allow time for automatic profile recalculation.

A temporary public policy removes specified LMIA-related requirements for qualifying job offers used to establish eligibility under the Federal Skilled Worker and Federal Skilled Trades programs.

• A job offer may support program eligibility without earning CRS job-offer points.
• FSW/FST minimum entry criteria and CRS ranking are different assessments.
• All other program, selection and admissibility requirements still apply.

The Permit Holder Class remains a narrow permanent residence pathway for certain people who have continuously lived in Canada on a temporary resident permit for the required period.

• A temporary resident permit is not a visitor visa, study permit or work permit.
• The required period is generally three or five years, depending on inadmissibility.
• Continuous residence and ongoing eligibility require careful review.

New regulations introduced a unified online process for inland and port-of-entry asylum claims, together with clearer procedural requirements and timelines.

• Eligible port-of-entry claimants may be directed to complete the online application within 60 days.
• Evidence, updates and incomplete claims are subject to firmer deadlines.
• Additional eligibility restrictions and limited exceptions must be assessed carefully.

Humanitarian and compassionate consideration remains a discretionary, fact-specific option for certain people in Canada who need an exemption from requirements of immigration law.

• H&C is not an automatic solution for lacking status or another pathway.
• Statutory restrictions can prevent or delay consideration.
• Hardship, establishment, family circumstances and the best interests of affected children may be relevant.