How to Immigrate to Canada as a Couple
10 Mar 2025
Taking the leap to immigrate to Canada as a couple is a life-changing decision that opens the door to new opportunities, a high quality of life, and a welcoming multicultural society. However, going through the Canadian immigration system can be challenging, especially when applying as a couple. Understanding the various pathways, eligibility requirements, and documentation is vital to ensuring our smooth and successful immigration to Canada.
This guide provides a detailed overview of how to immigrate to Canada as a couple.
Canadian Immigration Relationship Definitions
Before exploring the immigration pathways for couples, find out how Canada defines different types of relationships. The Canadian government recognizes three main categories of relationships for immigration purposes.
Spouse
A spouse refers to a legally married partner. For the marriage to be recognized in Canada, it must be legally valid in the country where it took place and under Canadian law. Polygamous marriages are not recognized. As a couple, you must provide a valid marriage certificate as proof of your union.
Common-Law Partner
A common-law partner has been living with their partner in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. Proof of cohabitation, such as joint leases, utility bills, or shared financial accounts, is required to demonstrate the relationship.
Conjugal Partner
A conjugal partner has been in a genuine conjugal relationship for at least one year but cannot live together or marry due to circumstances beyond their control. This could include legal barriers, immigration restrictions, or persecution. Evidence of the relationship, such as communication records, photos, and affidavits, is necessary.
Understanding these definitions is critical because the type of relationship you have will determine the documentation you need to provide and the immigration pathway you can choose.
Key Immigration Pathways for Couples to Canada
Canada offers several immigration pathways for couples, each with eligibility requirements and application processes. Below are the primary options.
Spousal Sponsorship
The Spousal Sponsorship program is one of the most popular pathways for couples. It allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for permanent residency in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for the Sponsor
To become a sponsor for your spouse or partner, you must:
- be at least 18 years old.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Must be living in Canada or planning to return if currently abroad.
- Must demonstrate the ability to support the sponsored person financially.
- Must not receive social assistance (except for disability-related reasons).
Proof of Relationship
Providing solid evidence of a genuine relationship is paramount. This includes:
- Marriage certificates (if applicable),
- Proof of cohabitation (e.g., joint leases, utility bills),
- Photos, communication records, and testimonies from family and friends, and
- Financial records showing shared finances.
Outland Sponsorship
Because your sponsored person resides outside Canada, you must guide them to apply through the Outland Sponsorship program. This immigration pathway is generally recognized for its quicker processing times, offering a more expedient route to permanent residency in Canada. It's important to note that Outland Sponsorship does not allow the sponsored individual to obtain a Canadian open work permit while their application is under review.
Open Work Permit
Under specific conditions, the sponsored individual may qualify for a Canadian open work permit while processing their sponsorship application. This valuable permit grants them the ability to work in Canada, contributing to their integration and financial stability. Eligibility for this work permit is subject to certain criteria, and applicants should carefully review the requirements to determine if they qualify.
Express Entry
The Express Entry system is a points-based immigration system that manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
How it Works for Couples
Couples can create individual Express Entry profiles, and the system will assign them a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Here’s a closer look at how this works.
Primary Applicant
It's often beneficial for the partner with the higher CRS score to assume the role of the primary applicant. This approach uses their substantial qualifications, potentially leading to a more competitive Express Entry profile.
Spouse as a Dependent
The other partner can be included as a dependent within the application, and their factors, such as education level and language proficiency, will contribute to and influence the overall CRS score. This inclusion allows for a combined assessment of the couple's qualifications.
Maximizing CRS Score
A thorough and careful evaluation of each partner’s strengths is vital in determining the most effective strategy for maximizing the CRS score. For instance, if one partner demonstrates stronger language skills or possesses a higher level of education, designating them as the primary applicant would be the optimal approach to enhance the application's competitiveness.
Key Points
The Express Entry system is highly competitive, so achieving a high CRS score is essential. Language testing, International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) for English, Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) for (French) is a critical component of the CRS score. Additional points can be earned through a valid job offer, provincial nomination, or Canadian education or work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Each Canadian province and territory (except Nunavut) has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows them to nominate individuals who meet their specific labor market needs.
How PNPs Works for Couples
PNPs offer various streams, some prioritizing couples with specific skills or work experience. Couples can explore PNP streams that align with their qualifications and the province’s needs. As with Express Entry, determining the primary applicant is vital. The partner with the most relevant skills or experience for the province’s labor market should take the lead. Here are some PNP streams that couples can explore.
| PNP Streams For Couples | Description |
|---|---|
| Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) – Human Capital Priorities Stream | This stream targets skilled workers with experience in high-demand occupations. Couples can apply together, with the primary applicant's skills and qualifications being the focus. If the primary applicant receives a provincial nomination, their partner can be included in the application. |
| British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) – Skills Immigration Stream | BC Skills Immigration Stream includes categories like Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled. Couples can apply together, with the primary applicant's job offer and skills determining eligibility. The partner may also be eligible for an open work permit. |
| Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) – Alberta Opportunity Stream | This stream is designed for temporary foreign workers already working in Alberta. Couples can apply together, with the primary applicant's job and work experience being the key factors. Alberta also offers the Rural Renewal Stream, which may benefit couples willing to settle in smaller communities. |
| Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) – International Skilled Worker Stream | Saskatchewan SINP allows couples to apply under the Express Entry and Occupation In-Demand subcategories. The primary applicant occupation must be in demand in Saskatchewan, and their education and work experience will be assessed. |
| Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) – Skilled Worker Overseas Stream | Manitoba MPNP prioritizes applicants with close ties to the province, such as having family or friends living there. Couples can apply together, and if one partner has a connection to Manitoba, it can strengthen the application. |
| Quebec Immigration Program - Family Reunification Stream | Canada’s family reunification program, including a distinct Quebec version, enables you, as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, to sponsor various family members for Canadian residency, prioritizing family unity and requiring a financial demonstration, with RCIC consultation recommended for those targeting Quebec. |
Key Considerations
Provincial requirements vary significantly, so it’s essential to research each province’s PNP criteria. Some PNPs offer enhanced nominations, which add extra CRS points to Express Entry profiles, increasing the chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA).
Benefits of Immigrating to Canada as a Couple
Immigrating to Canada as a couple offers many benefits beyond individual advantages. Sharing the experience strengthens bonds and provides a robust support system during a significant life transition.
Enhanced Support System
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming. Having a partner to navigate challenges, share responsibilities, and provide emotional support eases the adjustment period. This mutual support is invaluable in adapting to a new culture and environment.
Financial Stability
Dual incomes significantly improve economic stability. Couples can share living expenses, contributing to a higher standard of living. This shared financial burden allows for more significant savings, investment opportunities, and achieving long-term financial goals, such as purchasing a home.
Improved Social Integration
Building a social network in a new country can be challenging. Couples can establish connections, attend community events, join clubs, and form friendships. This shared experience fosters a sense of belonging and accelerates social integration.
Access to World-Class Healthcare and Education
Canada's publicly funded healthcare system provides comprehensive coverage for permanent residents, ensuring access to quality medical care. Couples can benefit from this security, knowing their health needs are met. Similarly, Canada's renowned education system offers opportunities for both partners to pursue further studies or professional development.
Enhanced Career Opportunities
Canada's diverse economy offers many career opportunities. Couples can use their combined skills and experience to pursue fulfilling careers. The ability to support each other professionally can lead to more significant career advancement and job satisfaction.
Shared Cultural Experiences
Exploring Canada's diverse landscapes and cultural offerings as a couple creates lasting memories. From vibrant cities to breathtaking natural wonders, couples can embark on adventures together, enriching their lives and strengthening their relationship.
FAQs
Can Couples Combine Our Financial Resources for Proof of Funds?
Yes, couples can combine their financial resources to meet the requirements for proof of funds for Canadian immigration. It's vital to provide clear documentation showing joint ownership or access to the funds. Ensure that the combined amount meets or exceeds the minimum required by the specific immigration program you are applying for.
Should Couples Both Create Separate Express Entry Profiles?
No, couples should not create separate Express Entry profiles. Only one profile should be created, with one partner designated as the primary applicant and the other as the spouse or common-law partner. This approach ensures the application is processed as a single unit, maximizing the combined CRS score.
If One Partner's Application is Rejected, Does it Affect the Other?
Yes, the entire application is usually rejected if one partner's application is rejected. Since the application is submitted as a couple, it's treated as a single unit, and a rejection for one applicant typically results in a rejection for both. This emphasizes the importance of ensuring both partners meet all eligibility requirements.
