March 2025 Immigration Updates: What’s Changing for Visa Applicants in Canada?

Canada has long been a top destination for international students, skilled workers, and families looking to start a new chapter. As of March 2025, several key updates have been introduced that affect visa applicants across various immigration streams. These changes reflect the Canadian government's efforts to adapt to labour market demands, streamline application processes, and strengthen national security.

If you're planning to apply for a visa to Canada—or are currently in the process—it’s important to stay informed and prepared. Here's a closer look at what’s changing and how it might affect you.

1. Key Immigration Policy Changes in March 2025

1.1 Express Entry Program Updates

1.1.1 Elimination of Bonus CRS Points for Job Offers

As of March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has removed the additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points previously awarded for arranged employment. Candidates will no longer receive extra points for having a valid job offer, including those supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This change aims to prioritize human capital factors—such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience—thereby reducing potential fraud and ensuring a fairer assessment process.

1.1.2 Introduction of Category-Based Draws

In February 2025, IRCC announced the implementation of category-based draws within the Express Entry system. These draws focus on candidates with specific attributes aligned with Canada’s labour market needs, including:

• Education: A new category targeting individuals with educational backgrounds pertinent to in-demand occupations.

• Canadian Work Experience: Prioritizing candidates with experience working in Canada, particularly those under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

This strategic shift aims to address long-term labour shortages and support economic growth.

1.1.3 CRS Score Trends

Recent Express Entry draws have exhibited varying CRS score thresholds. For instance, the draw on March 21, 2025, targeted candidates with French language proficiency, with a minimum CRS score of 379 and 7,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued. This indicates a trend toward lower CRS cut-offs in category-based draws, offering opportunities for a broader range of candidates.

1.2 Family Sponsorship Program Updates

Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) Adjustments

On March 7, 2025, IRCC provided an update regarding the 2025 intake for the Parents and Grandparents Program. The department intends to accept up to 10,000 complete applications for sponsorship under this program. Instead of opening a new interest-to-sponsor form, IRCC will send invitations to apply to randomly selected potential sponsors from the existing pool of submissions from 2020. This approach mirrors the process used in previous years.

1.3 Work Permit Changes

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and LMIA Exemptions

In March 2025, Canada introduced measures to support the construction industry by facilitating the entry of skilled workers. These measures include adjustments to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and specific LMIA exemptions for eligible occupations. Employers in the construction sector should familiarize themselves with these changes to address labour shortages effectively.

1.4 Study Permit Rules

1.4.1 Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Extensions and Processing Delays

International students planning to stay in Canada after their studies should take note of updates to the Post-Graduation Work Permit program. As of March 2025, the eligibility rules have been tightened to prioritize graduates from public institutions and designated learning institutions (DLIs) with strong employment outcomes.

While graduates of private career colleges remain eligible in some cases, they must now demonstrate that their program meets certain quality standards and leads to occupations in demand. Additionally, the validity of some PGWPs has been extended to up to three years for graduates in sectors such as healthcare and STEM, in an effort to retain more talent.

Students should also be aware of potential processing delays for study permits and PGWP applications. The IRCC has acknowledged these delays and is implementing measures to improve processing times. Applicants are advised to submit applications well in advance of their intended start dates and to monitor official communications for updates.

1.4.2. Updated Financial Requirements for Study Permits

To reflect the rising cost of living, IRCC has updated the minimum financial requirements for international students. Starting March 1, 2025, applicants must demonstrate access to greater funds than in previous years to ensure they can support themselves while studying in Canada.

This increase is intended to reduce financial vulnerability among students and improve their overall experience. Prospective students are encouraged to review the updated guidelines and plan their budgets accordingly before submitting their applications.

2. Impact on Different Visa Applicants

2.1 Skilled Workers and Express Entry Candidates

The removal of bonus CRS points for job offers significantly impacts candidates who previously relied on arranged employment to enhance their scores. Skilled workers must now focus on strengthening other human capital factors, such as language proficiency, education, and Canadian work experience, to remain competitive in the Express Entry pool.

2.2 Family Sponsorship Applicants

Changes to the PGP may affect applicants’ ability to sponsor parents and grandparents. It’s essential to stay updated on application windows and revised criteria to ensure timely and successful submissions. Additionally, applicants should prepare comprehensive documentation to meet the new requirements.

2.3 Employers and Temporary Work Permit Holders

Employers seeking to hire foreign workers—particularly in the construction industry—must navigate the updated TFWP regulations and LMIA exemptions. Understanding these changes is vital to streamline the hiring process and ensure compliance with immigration laws. Employers should consult with immigration professionals to adapt their recruitment strategies accordingly.

2.4 International Students

Processing delays for study permits and PGWPs may disrupt academic and career plans. International students should plan accordingly, allowing extra time for application processing and exploring alternative options if delays persist. Staying informed about policy changes and maintaining open communication with educational institutions can help mitigate potential challenges.

Staying Informed Is Key

Immigration policies in Canada are continuously evolving to reflect shifting priorities, economic demands, and global events. The March 2025 updates emphasize faster processing, targeted recruitment, and stronger protections for applicants—all designed to ensure a fairer and more effective immigration system.

If you're planning to apply for a Canadian visa or are in the midst of the process, now is the time to review your documents, stay up to date with new requirements, and, if necessary, seek guidance from a certified immigration consultant or legal expert.

Whether you're coming to Canada to study, work, join family, or start a new life, being informed is your greatest advantage.