Adding spouse or an adopted child to the express entry application can be done at any time during the process, including after the visa is issued, but prior to obtaining permanent resident status. An applicant should immediately inform IRCC of any change to the family composition. How this will impact your application will depend on what stage of the application process you are at.
Pre-ITA
If you have not yet received an invitation to apply, you can amend the application online. However, be advised that upon adding a spouse to the application may change your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and the applicant will need to show a higher proof of funds. Further, if points for the education, work experience, and language scores of the spouse are claimed, the applicant will have to upload documents to corroborate it. When the application is processed, the completeness check and the eligibility check will be done for all the family members of the applicant named on the file.
Post-ITA
If the family composition changes after the e-APR has been submitted, the family member added is not subject to eligibility assessment. However, the family member will have to be assessed for medical, criminal and security.
How to add a family member to the application?
To add a family member to the application, the applicant will need to fill and submit an Additional Family Information form [IMM 5406] and pay the applicable fees online. The applicant will also have to provide, medical reports, passports, and the police clearance certificates (PCC) for a family member over 18, and proof of relationship (marriage certificate, adoption certificate, birth certificate etc.). After an e-APR is filed, the application cannot be refused due to a change in circumstance unless:
- the officer determines that the change occurred before the applicant submitted their e-APR and that the change would have caused the applicant to be refused under eligibility assessment: therefore, the application should be refused under section A11.2; or
- the change in circumstance means the applicant no longer meets the minimum requirements of the program to which they are applying; therefore, the application may still meet the eligibility requirements but can be refused for failing to meet program requirements.
To know how an express entry application is processed click here.
After you file your documents to add a family member, it is important to keep a track of whether the documents have been processed and there are no issues with the additional documents. Ordering GCMS notes can greatly help you understand what is happening with your application, and if there are any concerns with the additional documents. You can order GCMS notes at anytime, which will help you keep a track of your application and let you take corrective action, if necessary.
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