2025 Work in Canada Updates: Changing Employers, LMIA Low-Wage Rules, and Express Entry Job Offer Points

If you're working in Canada on an employer-specific work permit and considering switching jobs or employers, you're not alone, and you're not stuck either. While the process can seem complex, knowing the right steps can help you transition smoothly. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to change jobs with an employer-specific work permit, how to legally start working before your new permit is approved, and recent updates to LMIA rules and Express Entry points.

I. Changing Jobs with an Employer-Specific Work Permit

An employer-specific work permit does exactly what it says: it ties your legal right to work in Canada to a single employer. If you want to take a new job, you generally need to apply for a new work permit.

But here’s the good news: you might not have to wait for the new permit to be approved before you start your new role. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows eligible workers to request early authorization to work while their new permit is being processed.

Who needs to apply for a new permit?

• Employer-specific work permit holders must apply for a new one to change jobs.

• International Experience Canada (IEC) participants should verify whether their permit allows a job switch.

• Open work permit holders don’t need to reapply. They can switch jobs freely.

How to Start Working Before Your New Permit Is Approved

To work for your new employer before your new permit is officially approved, you must meet a few conditions:

You’re applying from within Canada

You either:

• Currently hold a valid employer-specific work permit, or

• Are authorized to work in Canada without a permit (but not as a business visitor or short-term Global Skills Strategy worker)

Step-by-Step: Requesting Authorization to Work While Waiting

If you meet the criteria, here’s how to request early authorization:

Step 1: Submit the IRCC Web Form using the provided priority code and include the appropriate message based on your situation whether you hold a current employer-specific work permit or are exempt from a permit.

Step 2: Watch for IRCC’s Email

Within 10–15 business days (possibly longer if you applied by mail), IRCC will email you confirming whether you’re authorized to begin your new job. Keep in mind: this is not your new work permit. It's temporary permission to start working while you wait for the final decision.

II. LMIA Policy Changes for Low-Wage Jobs

If you’re planning to take a new job that requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), especially in a low-wage role, several changes took effect recently:

Effective Nov 8, 2024

• The wage threshold between high-wage and low-wage streams increased by 20%

Effective Oct 28, 2024

• Lawyer or CPA attestations no longer accepted to verify business legitimacy.

Effective Sept 26, 2024

• No LMIAs issued for low-wage positions in regions where unemployment is 6% or higher.

• Cap on low-wage roles reduced from 20% to 10% (except construction and healthcare, which remain at 20%).

• Maximum employment duration for low-wage jobs reduced to 1 year (previously 2 years).

Regional Suspensions

• Montréal: No low-wage LMIAs from Sept 3, 2024 – Nov 30, 2025

• Laval: Same pause from Mar 3 – Nov 30, 2025

III. Express Entry: No More Points for Job Offers

As of March 25, 2025, Express Entry candidates no longer earn extra CRS points for job offers, whether supported by an LMIA or not. This includes job offers classified under NOC 00 (200 points) and other skilled occupation (50 points). This change affects many hopeful immigrants, but job offers may still be essential for:

• Federal Skilled Trades Program

• Federal Skilled Worker Program

• Certain PNP streams

If your eligibility requires a job offer, you should still include those details in your Express Entry profile, even if they don’t boost your score anymore.

Need Help Navigating the Process?

Changing employers, applying for new permits, or understanding shifting LMIA and Express Entry rules can get overwhelming. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.  Book a consultation with us today  to ensure you're making the right moves and staying compliant.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies are subject to change. Always refer to the official IRCC website for the most accurate and updated information.