Spousal IELTS Requirement for Canadian Express Entry PR Visa: Do You Need It?

In the Canadian Express Entry system for permanent residency, only the primary applicant is required to take the IELTS International English Language Testing System to demonstrate language proficiency. However, the situation changes if your spouse is included in the application for additional points or as a secondary applicant in a different category.

Do Your Spouse Need to Supply IELTS?

Under the Express Entry system of Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), only the primary applicant is mandated to take the IELTS or another approved language test. This requirement is aimed at proving the primary applicant's English proficiency. However, your spouse is required to provide IELTS results if they are included to claim additional points for their language proficiency in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

Language Proficiency and Its Impact

The language proficiency of your spouse can significantly impact the overall CRS score, which is used to rank Express Entry candidates. If your spouse accompanies you, they may need to provide IELTS or equivalent language test results. This is because language proficiency is one of the key factors in the CRS scoring system, contributing to your application's overall success.

It's important to note that while primary applicants are typically only required to take the IELTS, secondary applicants, including spouses, may need to provide language test results, especially if they are contributing additional points to your CRS score. This requirement ensures that all family members have the necessary language skills to integrate into Canadian society effectively.

Getting Up-to-Date Information

Canadian immigration policies and requirements can change over time, so it's always a good idea to refer to the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most current and accurate information. Additionally, consulting with a qualified immigration consultant can provide specific guidance tailored to your individual circumstances.

Why IELTS Matters

Language proficiency is a crucial component in the Canadian immigration process. IELTS is one of the accepted language tests in Canada, and achieving a high band score can contribute to your CRS score. If your spouse is included in the application, their IELTS score can provide an additional 20-30 points, depending on the band scores achieved.

Talking to a Consultant

Many candidates have shared their concerns with me recently about the IELTS requirement for their spouse under the Express Entry program. Here's what I informed them:

The CRS score is calculated based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The primary applicant's score is often the deciding factor, but a high IELTS score from your spouse can be an added advantage. In some cases, a secondary applicant with a low CRS score might struggle to get an invitation to apply (ITA). In such situations, a high IELTS score from your spouse can make a significant difference. Spouses can earn up to 148 points in the CRS based on their IELTS scores, including 5 points for each of the four skills tested, providing a maximum of 20 points each if they score 6 in each of the four categories (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).

While your spouse is not required to provide IELTS results, I do recommend that they do so. This can significantly boost your application's overall score, making it more likely to receive an invitation to apply.

Seeking Professional Guidance

If you need more professional guidance, I recommend booking a free consultation with GIS (Global Immigration Services). They are one of the most trustworthy and reliable guides in the field, offering assistance with any Canada-related queries, including IELTS preparation. By seeking this professional help, you can ensure that you and your spouse are well-prepared for the application process.

By understanding your options and following the necessary steps, you can increase your chances of successfully obtaining Canadian permanent residency.