The Spousal Factor in Express Entry: Navigating Challenges in Canadian Immigration Applications
For many individuals pursuing permanent residence in Canada, the journey isn't a solo endeavor. Family dynamics, particularly the profile of a spouse, can significantly influence the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) under the Express Entry system and the time and effort required to build a competitive profile.
Economic Units: You are what you contribute
In the economic immigration categories, IRCC evaluates applicants as economic units with actual or potential value to the Canadian labour market and economy. Spouses are included in this assessment, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the application process.
The Express Entry Impact: Every Point Counts
A spouse’s profile primarily affects an Express Entry application through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This federal system awards points for various factors, and a spouse's characteristics can either strengthen or weaken the principal applicant's total score.
In fact, simply having a spouse can reduce the principal applicant’s score by up to 28 points. However, a well-qualified spouse can contribute up to 40 additional points, particularly if they have higher education and strong language skills.
To maximize the spouse’s contribution, their background should closely mirror the principal applicant's through:
strong English or French skills (CLB 9)
a degree (ideally a graduate degree)
Canadian work experience, if possible
Even without Canadian work experience strong language skills combined with a graduate degree can still add 30 points to the overall CRS score. This makes early preparation and planning essential for couples preparing a permanent residency application.
Strength and Strategy: The Power of One
If the spouse cannot contribute many points, the responsibility shifts to the principal applicant to boost their CRS score through:
more Canadian work experience
foreign work experience
stronger language test results
second language proficiency
a provincial nominee program, either for additional points or as a direct pathway
In some cases, if the principal applicant has not yet married or does not meet the common-law criteria, and if the future spouse’s background would lower the CRS score, it may be worth considering delaying the marriage until after an ITA has been issued and the application is in progress. The spouse must still be added to the application before it is finalized, but by marrying after submission the spouse will not be factored into the CRS score.
By strategically building a strong Express Entry profile that accounts for both partners' strengths and limitations, applicants can significantly improve their chances of receiving an ITA. At COMPASS Immigration Solutions, we offer clear, comprehensive guidance to help you navigate the complexities of Canada’s immigration system and achieve your immigration goals with confidence.