Canada is a favored destination for immigrants from all over the world due to its high quality of life, diverse culture, and numerous opportunities. One of the most popular immigration pathways to Canada is through the Express Entry system, which facilitates the immigration of skilled workers. A common question that arises in the context of immigration is whether one can get married and subsequently apply for Express Entry. This essay will delve into the intricacies of this process, discussing the Express Entry system, the impact of marriage on the application, and the steps involved in applying as a married couple.
Understanding the Express Entry System
The Express Entry system is a points-based immigration pathway introduced by the Canadian government in 2015. It aims to streamline the immigration process for skilled workers and ensure that those who are most likely to succeed in Canada are given priority. The system manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Key Components of Express Entry
1. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS):
The CRS is a points-based system used to assess and score a candidate’s profile to rank them in the Express Entry pool. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
2. Eligibility Requirements:
Each of the three programs under Express Entry has its own set of eligibility criteria. Generally, candidates must meet minimum requirements for work experience, language proficiency, and education.
3. Invitation to Apply (ITA):
Candidates with the highest CRS scores in the Express Entry pool are issued an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence during regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Impact of Marriage on Express Entry
Getting married can significantly impact an individual’s Express Entry profile and CRS score. It’s essential to understand how the marital status and the accompanying changes in the application can influence the chances of receiving an ITA.
CRS Points Allocation
When a candidate is married or has a common-law partner, the CRS points allocation can be affected in several ways:
1. Principal Applicant:
The couple must decide who will be the principal applicant, which is typically the person with the higher CRS score. The other spouse can be included as an accompanying dependent.
2. Spouse’s Credentials:
The spouse’s age, education, language proficiency, and work experience can contribute additional points to the overall CRS score. This can either enhance or decrease the chances of receiving an ITA, depending on the spouse’s qualifications.
3. Adaptability Factors:
Having a spouse who has previously worked or studied in Canada, or who has a job offer in Canada, can also add points to the CRS score under adaptability factors.
Documentation and Process
Applying for Express Entry as a married couple requires additional documentation and steps:
1. Marriage Certificate:
A legal marriage certificate must be provided to prove the marital relationship.
2. Spouse’s Documents:
The principal applicant must include the spouse’s educational credentials, language test results, and work experience documents, if applicable.
3. Proof of Funds:
Proof of sufficient settlement funds must be shown for the entire family, including the spouse and any dependent children.
Steps to Apply for Express Entry as a Married Couple
Navigating the Express Entry process as a married couple involves several critical steps:
Create an Express Entry Profile
The principal applicant must create an Express Entry profile on the IRCC website, providing accurate information about themselves and their spouse. It’s crucial to ensure that all details are complete and truthful, as discrepancies can lead to delays or refusals.
Obtain Necessary Documents
Both the principal applicant and the spouse must gather and prepare all required documents, including:
- Educational Credential Assessments (ECA) for both applicants.
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) for both applicants.
- Proof of work experience for both applicants.
- Marriage certificate.
- Police clearance certificates.
- Medical examination results.
- Step 3: Calculate CRS Score
Using the CRS calculator available on the IRCC website, calculate the CRS score based on the information provided in the Express Entry profile. This will help in understanding the likelihood of receiving an ITA.
Submit the Express Entry Profile
Once the profile is complete and all documents are in order, the principal applicant must submit the Express Entry profile. The profile will be entered into the Express Entry pool, where it will be ranked based on the CRS score.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If the CRS score is high enough, the principal applicant will receive an ITA during one of the regular draws conducted by IRCC. The ITA is a formal invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Submit a Complete Application
After receiving the ITA, the principal applicant must submit a complete application for permanent residence within the stipulated 60 days. This includes uploading all required documents, paying the application fees, and providing biometrics.
Await Decision
Once the complete application is submitted, IRCC will review the application and make a decision. This process can take several months, during which time additional information or documents may be requested.
Considerations and Challenges
Applying for Express Entry as a married couple comes with its own set of considerations and challenges:
Financial Considerations
The financial requirements for a married couple are higher than for a single applicant. Sufficient proof of funds must be shown to support the entire family in Canada. This includes liquid assets that can be readily accessed.
Language Proficiency
Both the principal applicant’s and the spouse’s language proficiency can significantly impact the CRS score. It’s advisable for both to take language tests and aim for the highest possible scores.
Adaptability
Adaptability factors such as having a sibling in Canada or previous Canadian education/work experience can add valuable points to the CRS score. Couples should explore all possible avenues to maximize their score.
Spousal Sponsorship
In some cases, if the CRS score is not competitive enough, the principal applicant may choose to apply alone initially and then sponsor their spouse for permanent residence once they are settled in Canada. This can be a strategic approach, although it involves a longer separation period.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting married does not hinder the possibility of applying for Express Entry to Canada; in fact, it can sometimes enhance the chances depending on the spouse’s credentials. The Express Entry system is designed to be flexible and accommodating, allowing married couples to navigate the immigration process together.
However, it is crucial to understand the implications of marriage on the CRS score, gather all necessary documentation, and carefully prepare the application to increase the likelihood of success. With proper planning and diligence, married couples can achieve their dream of immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry system, contributing to the diverse and vibrant fabric of Canadian society.
