For many individuals considering immigration to Canada, turning 35 can bring a wave of uncertainty, especially when it comes to applying for Express Entry. This feeling of hesitation primarily arises from the loss of points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a crucial element in the immigration process. The CRS ranks candidates based on various human capital factors, including age, language skills, education, work experience, and occupation. As prospective immigrants reach their mid-30s, many worry that their age will hinder their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence.
The CRS operates within the Express Entry system, which is used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residence under federal economic programs. The system assigns points based on a candidate’s profile, with a maximum of 1,200 points available. Factors such as language proficiency, education level, work experience, and age contribute to this score. Candidates with the highest scores receive ITAs in regular draws held by IRCC.
While the CRS evaluates multiple criteria, age remains a significant determinant of a candidate's overall score. The system is designed to favour younger applicants, as they are perceived to have a longer potential working life in Canada. As a result, many candidates find that once they reach the age of 35, their CRS points begin to decline, making them less competitive in the immigration pool.
The impact of age on the CRS score can be discouraging for many potential immigrants. The following table outlines the maximum CRS points available based on age and whether the applicant has a spouse or partner:
| Age (Years) | With a Spouse (Max Points: 100) | Without a Spouse (Max Points: 110) |
| Under 18 | 0 | 0 |
| 18 | 90 | 99 |
| 19 | 95 | 105 |
| 20-29 | 100 | 110 |
| 30 | 95 | 105 |
| 31 | 90 | 99 |
| 32 | 85 | 94 |
| 33 | 80 | 88 |
| 34 | 75 | 83 |
| 35 | 70 | 77 |
| 36 | 65 | 72 |
| 37 | 60 | 66 |
| 38 | 55 | 61 |
| 39 | 50 | 55 |
| 40 | 45 | 50 |
| 41 | 35 | 39 |
| 42 | 25 | 28 |
| 43 | 15 | 17 |
| 44 | 5 | 6 |
| 45 and Over | 0 | 0 |
From this table, it is clear that individuals aged 35 receive fewer points compared to younger applicants, which can discourage them from pursuing Express Entry. As they move into their late 30s and beyond, the points continue to decrease, compounding their concerns about the feasibility of applying for permanent residence in Canada.
Receiving an ITA is a pivotal step in the immigration process. After being selected from the pool of candidates, the applicant is invited to submit a complete application for permanent residence. This process is highly competitive, and candidates are encouraged to maximize their CRS scores to increase their chances of being invited. However, the point deductions associated with age can create a sense of hopelessness among older applicants. Despite this, there are effective strategies that can be employed to enhance their chances of success.
Even though age can negatively impact the CRS score, there are several strategies that individuals aged 35 and older can adopt to improve their chances of receiving an ITA. Here are three effective approaches:
One viable option for older candidates is to explore category-based selection draws. Unlike general draws, which tend to have higher CRS cut-off scores, category-based draws often have lower thresholds. For example, in recent years, the lowest CRS scores for general draws have typically been above 524. In contrast, category-based draws have had cut-off scores that are consistently at least 33 points lower.
This trend means that older Express Entry candidates may not need to worry as much about the impact of age on their CRS score if they focus on these category-based draws. By targeting specific categories that align with their skills and qualifications, candidates can potentially receive an ITA without being at a disadvantage due to age.
Candidates with a spouse who also qualifies for Express Entry should consider including them in their application. The CRS provides additional points for candidates applying with a spouse, which can help offset some of the scores lost due to age. Specifically, candidates can earn up to 40 extra CRS points based on their spouse's qualifications.
These additional points are divided into three main factors:
If both partners are eligible for Express Entry, it is advisable for the individual with the higher potential CRS score to be the principal applicant. This strategy not only enhances the chances of receiving an ITA but also helps mitigate the effects of age-related point deductions.
Language proficiency is another area where candidates can significantly boost their CRS score. The IRCC rewards candidates who exceed the minimum language requirements, allowing them to accumulate additional points. For instance, even if the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) requires a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7, candidates can achieve higher scores by aiming for CLB levels 8, 9, or 10.
Here’s how language proficiency impacts the CRS score:
Improving language skills not only helps in accumulating points but also enhances overall communication abilities, which are vital for settling in Canada.
For prospective immigrants over 35, it is crucial to remain proactive and explore all available options. While the age factor in the CRS can be daunting, understanding the system and utilizing strategies to maximize scores can create pathways to success. The potential to immigrate to Canada remains within reach, and by adopting targeted approaches, older candidates can effectively navigate the Express Entry system.
Turning 35 may present unique challenges for those seeking to apply through Express Entry, but with the right strategies, it is possible to overcome age-related obstacles. By focusing on category-based selection draws, considering the inclusion of a qualified spouse, and working to enhance language proficiency, older candidates can significantly improve their chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency.
As prospective immigrants embark on their journey toward Canadian immigration, it is essential to maintain a positive outlook and actively seek opportunities that align with their skills and qualifications. Canada continues to welcome newcomers who can contribute to its diverse and dynamic society, and age should not be a deterrent to pursuing this life-changing opportunity.
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