On November 19, the law changed vis-à-vis the assessment of points for Canadian permanent resident applications. Further details can be found at http://www.kranclaw.com/2016/11/updates-to-canadas-express-entry-permanent-residence-system/.
Since then, there have been two draws. The first was held November 30, and the minimum threshold to be selected was 786. It was clear that this was a ‘one-off’ high number designed to select provincial nominees (it would be very hard to qualify otherwise).
The second draw has now been held. The threshold point level set for selection was only 497. Though point levels will always fluctuate with each draw, it appears that this number allows those with work experience in Canada (with or without an LMIA) to qualify, subject of course to some appropriate levels of language, education, etc. Those without the work experience in Canada may still qualify, but the 50 points now given for arranged employment for work in Canada is seemingly the tipping point for many applicants.
For those working in Canada considering a permanent residence application, it would seem that in many cases, now would be a good time to lodge a profile, or at least take a closer look at how they fare in the system.