2026 changes to points for Canadian work experience and job offers

IRCC's guidance separates two questions that candidates often confuse. The first is whether a job offer helps you meet a program's eligibility requirements. The second is whether it earns CRS ranking points. The two are assessed separately.

What this means for Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) and Federal Skilled Trades (FSTP) applicants

A valid job offer may help you meet program eligibility even if the job is not on the high-wage occupation list.

Qualifying offers are not limited to high-wage roles. They may be in any eligible TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 job that meets program requirements.

An offer can qualify for program eligibility and still not qualify for CRS job offer points.

For FSW, IRCC describes a valid offer as at least one year of continuous, paid, full-time (30+ hours/week), non-seasonal work in a TEER 0–3 occupation, from a Canadian employer. The offer must also fit one of four listed situations, which depend on your current work status and on whether the employer has an LMIA or is LMIA-exempt. (canada)

Why it matters: A candidate may wrongly assume an LMIA-supported offer "boosts the score." Another may wrongly assume it is worthless because the job is not high-wage. Both assumptions can lead to poor decisions.

Before relying on any job offer:

Confirm your NOC and TEER category.

Confirm the offer meets the duration, hours and employer requirements.

Have a regulated professional review the full profile.

LLMS Immigration and Citizenship Consulting Inc., Brampton, ON | RCIC R1041042 | www.migrationexperts.ca.