Why Some Married Applicants Apply Solo for Canadian PR
Canada’s immigration system is known for its fairness and transparency—but it also rewards strategy. Under the Express Entry program, single applicants can earn up to 40 extra Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points compared to married candidates. As a result, some couples are applying with only one partner listed as the principal applicant.
00:00Points-based immigration system favors single PR applicants over married couples, experts say.
00:09Canada's immigration system is known for its fairness and transparency, but it also rewards strategy.
00:16Under the Express Entry program, single applicants can earn up to 40 Extra Comprehensive Ranking System points, compared to married candidates.
00:25As a result, some couples are applying with only one partner listed as the principal applicant.
00:32The full version of this video update is available on our website. Link is provided in the description below.
00:55In this video, we explore the points advantage single applicants have in Canada's Express Entry System, the use of the non-accompanying spouse option, and the fine line between a legal strategy and potential misrepresentation.
01:11We also discuss the rising CRS score requirements and IRCC's recent warnings about misuse, along with what the future might hold.
01:22Watch till the end to avoid costly mistakes and gain insight into securing your PR successfully.
01:29At number one, we have points advantage for single applicants.
01:37Under Canada's CRS, being single can boost your score by up to 40 points.
01:44That's why some married individuals apply as solo candidates to gain a competitive edge.
01:49Next, at number two, it's non-accompanying spouse option.
01:55If a spouse has lower qualifications, weak language scores, or no Canadian work experience, applicants can lawfully list them as non-accompanying.
02:08The spouse can join later through family reunification channels.
02:12Coming in at number three, we cover legal versus misrepresentation risks.
02:18This method is legal only if applicants are transparent.
02:25Misrepresentation, such as hiding the fact that a spouse is already living in Canada, can lead to serious penalties or application refusal.
02:33At number four, we focus on rising CRS score requirements.
02:39With Canada reducing PR intake from 500,000 to 395,000 in 2025 and CRS cut-offs now reaching over 529 points, competition is tighter than ever.
02:54In contrast, the minimum score was just 368 in 2021.
03:00And finally, number five is IRCC's Warning and Future Outlook.
03:10The government is alert to potential misuse.
03:13IRCC has issued fairness letters to applicants who appeared to use the non-accompanying spouse rule deceptively.
03:20Honesty remains key to long-term success.
03:23Before we end, let's do the conclusion.
03:30Canada's immigration system rewards those who are both smart and sincere.
03:36For couples aiming for PR, strategic planning is valid.
03:41But transparency is essential.
03:44Want to learn how to make the right call for your application?
