Rules for sibling points
You (or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner) get 15 additional CRS points if you have a brother or sister who is at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and living in Canada. The sibling must share at least one parent with you through blood, adoption, marriage or common-law partnership.
- Half-siblings and step-siblings count if you share a parent through blood, adoption, marriage or common-law partnership.
- The sibling can be yours or your partner's, but the points are given only once, even with several siblings.
- You will need proof of their status (citizenship certificate, PR card), proof they live in Canada and documents showing the shared parent, such as birth certificates.
What 15 points is worth
CEC cut-offs in 2026 moved by fewer than 15 points between many rounds, and thousands of profiles sit in each 10-point band of the pool. Combined with French or a language retake, it can push a profile over the line.
Frequently asked questions
Do cousins count for sibling points?
No. Only brothers and sisters (including half and step siblings who share a parent).
Can I get 30 points for two siblings?
No. The 15 points are given once.
Does my sibling have to live in Canada?
Yes. They must be living in Canada and be a citizen or permanent resident aged 18 or older.
Want your own number? The CRS calculator scores your profile under the 3 November 2026 rules, or and download a PDF report.