By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Milton, a diverse and growing community home to many newcomers, has welcomed the federal government’s move to strengthen the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
Marc Miller, minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship, has announced that Express Entry candidates will no longer receive additional points for having a job offer. The change, set to take effect in spring 2025, aims to reduce fraud by eliminating incentives to buy or sell labour market impact assessments (LMIAs) to boost applicants’ chances of selection for permanent residency.
Ravi Patel, a Milton businessman, said: “The Canadian government’s decision to update the Express Entry system will make the immigration process transparent and ensure candidates are selected on merit rather than fake offers. It will also reduce fraudulent practices that have undermined the system in the past.”
The change is being welcomed by those who have arrived in Milton through the Express Entry system. Amna Qureshi, who immigrated from Pakistan two years ago, said the update ensures equal opportunities for future applicants.
“It’s heartening to know that those intending to apply in the future will not rely on questionable job offers to improve their chances. It will make the system transparent and merit-based,” she said.
Suresh Menon, who immigrated to Milton from India, emphasized the long-term benefits of the reform.
“Canada’s immigration system is one of the best in the world, but there’s always room for improvement,” Menon said. “This update will help minimize fraud and misrepresentation, bringing in genuine, skill-based talent.”
The changes will apply to Express Entry candidates seeking permanent residency, including those working temporarily in Canada. However, candidates who have already received an invitation to apply or have applications in progress will not be affected.
These reforms aim to reinforce trust in Canada’s immigration system while ensuring skilled newcomers contribute to Milton’s economic success.
Background on Express Entry
Express Entry is a system implemented by the Canadian government to manage permanent residence applications and address labour shortages through specific economic immigration programs. Introduced on Jan. 1, 2015, it facilitates the selection of skilled applicants and manages a pool of immigration-ready workers.
Recognized for its efficiency, Express Entry processes 80 per cent of applications within six months or less, offering a faster alternative to previous systems.
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