The OP's posts are somewhat confusing. If he applied online, he would have to submit his passport for the visa stamping when (IF) he got a passport request.
If the agent took his passport at the time of submitting an online application then two possibilities:
1. There was a passport request. The agent submitted the passport. TRV issued. All good.
2. No passport request. Agent returns the passport with the 'TRV'. All bad. And, worse is possible if the someone attempts to travel using fraudulent documents.
Only the OP knows the facts of his case. We're just speculating here
First of all certain things for clarity:
1. I am working for Stryker corporation. And for some work i have to go to canada.
2. I applied online first as everyoee told me it is fast and easy given the fact that i have US visa already and keep on travelling there.
3. I had the invitation letter from FDA so i thot it is going to be a cake walk and i should be able to travel within 30 days. When i apploed for visa on 2 august.. 30 days was the max time.
4. I sent ircc web form and repeated emails once the max time has passed.
5. I didnt get reply from anywhere..
6. I approached my own company legal cell and they advised me to file paper based application thru VFS as well. All the questions that filled ur minds.. filed mine too.
7. Spoke to VFS officials amd they said u can file as it been more than 4 months against the standard time of 43 days.
8. I applied PBA in vfs and then u need to give ur passport. And i have deposited the same.
9. When u fill the forms, they ask u whether u applied earlier or not? If yes give ur UCI and file number and state the reason why u r applying again.
10. I ahve added the description why i am applying again as i didnt get the decision on my online application. And i need to travel there for my work.
11. U do need biometric when u have done ur usa visa in past. So thats why they didnt call me biometric.
12. I asked tje same thing to vfs and they also told me...when they read PBA they will go the earlier file.submitted online and get to know if they need anything.
13. If they feel all ok. Then they give approval as well.
14. Now my online application is also stating visa done thru VfS application.