January 4, 2026

Immigrating to Canada is an exciting opportunity for couples seeking a better future. The Express Entry program provides a fast and efficient path to Canadian permanent residency (PR), but applying as a couple comes with its own set of challenges. Knowing whether to list your spouse or common-law partner as accompanying or non-accompanying can significantly impact your application success.

At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd. Calgary Alberta, our certified RCIC consultants help couples navigate the Express Entry process with precision, ensuring maximum CRS points, compliance with immigration rules, and a smooth application journey.

Understanding Accompanying vs. Non-Accompanying Partners

When creating your Express Entry profile, you must indicate your partner’s status:

  • Accompanying Partner: Your spouse will move to Canada with you and receive PR simultaneously.
  • Non-Accompanying Partner: Your spouse will remain abroad initially but is still recognized in your application.
Partner Status PR Eligibility CRS Score Impact Family Size Included
Accompanying Yes Yes Yes
Non-Accompanying No No Yes

Choosing incorrectly can reduce your CRS points or complicate your future sponsorship plans.

When to Consider a Non-Accompanying Partner

Listing a partner as non-accompanying may be suitable if:

  • Your spouse has professional or educational commitments abroad.
  • Temporary separation is necessary before relocating together to Canada.

⚠️ Warning: Using non-accompanying status solely to increase CRS points is considered misrepresentation and can result in refusal or a five-year ban from Canadian immigration.

How Partner Status Affects Your CRS Score

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) calculates points based on age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

  • If a primary applicant has a high CRS score, including a partner with lower credentials may reduce overall points.
  • In certain cases, listing a partner as non-accompanying can preserve a higher CRS score—if there is a legitimate reason for the temporary separation.

Accurate planning and strategy are critical to maximizing your CRS points.

Common Mistakes Couples Make

Avoid these errors:

  • Omitting your spouse from your application.
  • Providing inconsistent or false information.
  • Attempting to add a partner after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) without valid justification.

Best practices:

  • Submit all required documents (marriage certificate, relationship proof).
  • Explore family sponsorship options if planning to bring the partner later.
  • Maintain honesty and consistency throughout the process.

Can Both Partners Apply Separately?

Yes. Both partners can create individual Express Entry profiles, listing the other as accompanying. This can be a smart strategy if both applicants have strong CRS scores, increasing the chance of receiving an ITA.

Benefits of Working with a Trusted Immigration Consultant

Applying through Express Entry as a couple can be complex. At MyWorld Immigration, we provide:

  • Detailed eligibility assessment and CRS analysis.
  • Expert guidance on choosing accompanying vs. non-accompanying status.
  • Step-by-step support through the application process.
  • Strategies to maximize CRS points while staying compliant with IRCC rules.

Our certified RCIC consultants ensure that your Express Entry application is accurate, competitive, and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between accompanying and non-accompanying partners?
Accompanying partners move to Canada with you and affect your CRS score, while non-accompanying partners stay abroad initially and do not impact CRS points.

2. Can a non-accompanying partner join later?
Yes, your partner can immigrate later through family sponsorship after you become a permanent resident.

3. Does listing a non-accompanying partner increase CRS points?
No. CRS points are only calculated for an accompanying partner. Misrepresentation is illegal.

4. What documents are required for a non-accompanying partner?
You need a marriage certificate, proof of relationship, and a clear Letter of Explanation detailing why they will not accompany you.

5. Can both partners apply separately?
Yes. Both can apply as primary applicants, which may optimize CRS points if both have strong profiles.

6. What are the risks of misrepresenting partner status?
IRCC may refuse your application and impose a five-year ban from Canadian immigration.

7. Why hire a professional immigration consultant?
A certified RCIC ensures compliance, optimizes CRS points, avoids errors, and streamlines the entire immigration process.

Take Action Now: Start Your Canadian Immigration Journey

Immigrating as a couple requires careful planning, strategic decisions, and professional guidance. Don’t risk delays or rejection due to avoidable mistakes.

Contact MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., your trusted and certified RCIC consultant from Calgary Alberta, today for a personalized consultation and begin your journey toward Canadian permanent residency with confidence.

📞 Contact: +1-672-399-0000
📧 Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
🌐 Website: www.myworldimmigration.com