Immigrating as a Couple through Express Entry: Understanding “Non-Accompanying” Spouses

Applying for Canadian permanent residence (PR) through Express Entry is exciting but also a bit tricky. For couples 💑, one key decision can really affect your application: whether to list your spouse as accompanying or non-accompanying.

Accompanying vs. Non-Accompanying Partners

You must always declare your spouse or common-law partner — hiding them = ❌ misrepresentation (possible refusal or even 5-year ban 🚫).

• 👫 Accompanying partner → Included in your PR, becomes PR with you.

🙅 Non-accompanying partner → Declared, but won’t become PR with you.

Partner Status	Partner gets PR?	Must be admissible?	Affects CRS score?	Counts in settlement funds?
👫 Accompanying	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
🙅 Non-accompanying	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes

🤔 Why List a Partner as Non-Accompanying?

Some couples do this for practical reasons:

• 💼 Partner has stable career/family abroad.

• 📌 Plan to sponsor later through Family Class sponsorship.

⚠️ But if your real intention is to move together and you mark “non-accompanying” just to get a higher CRS score, IRCC may see it as misrepresentation.

📊 CRS Score Considerations

Your choice affects your points!

Your choice affects your points!

Example:

• Shannon (27, Master’s, CLB 9+, 1 yr Canadian + 1 yr foreign exp.) → 539 points if she applies alone.

• With her husband Jeff (32, high school, CLB 6, no Canadian exp.) as accompanying → drops to 513.

👉 In this case, Shannon might apply with Jeff as non-accompanying, then sponsor him later.

🚩 Problematic Scenarios

IRCC may question your application if:

• 🏠 You live together in Canada but list spouse as “non-accompanying”.

• 🔄 You add a spouse after ITA without a legitimate status change.

✅ Dos and ❌ Don’ts for Couples

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t hide your spouse 🙅‍♂️

• Don’t mask inadmissibility 🚫

• Don’t submit inconsistent info 📄

• Don’t add spouse post-ITA (unless status changed) ⚠️

✅ Dos

• Always disclose your relationship 💍

• Be transparent & consistent 📝

• Research Family Class sponsorship if planning later 📚

Consider both short-term CRS & long-term PR goals 🎯

👩‍❤️‍👨 Can Both Partners Apply Separately?

Yes! Each partner can be the principal applicant while listing the other as spouse.

👉 Example:

• Mary applies with Bob as spouse.

• Bob applies with Mary as spouse.

Whichever gets ITA first 🎉 → the other withdraws.

🌟 Final Thoughts

For couples, Express Entry is not just about points, but about long-term planning 💡.

The choice between accompanying vs. non-accompanying can shape your PR journey.

If unsure, it’s wise to consult an immigration professional 👩‍⚖️ to avoid mistakes and find the best path for you both.

We are here to help you. Contact us! Book a consultation now!

Immigrating as a Couple through Express Entry: Understanding “Non-Accompanying” Spouses