Another long and bumpy journey is over! Please update the timesheet. Also, could you please change my city from Scarborough to Toronto. Thank you!
1. We received your application for Canadian citizenship (grant of citizenship) on November 2, 2017.
2. We started processing your application on January 9, 2018.
3. We sent you a notice on September 5, 2018 to appear and write the citizenship test on September 18, 2018 (Scarborough)
Now the most interesting part. I have waited after my exam and didn't hear anything from CIC. I have filled the webform and received pretty standard respond - in processing, just wait. Immediately I have contacted my MP and initialized the communication between my MP and CIC. After two days I have received finger print request by email.
4. We sent you correspondence on November 20, 2018 - FPR
The email for FP was really scary. Basically, it said that I am a criminal and lied on my application. It was not pleasant to read. Immediately I went to a fingerprinting service and the lady there told me that it is a standard wording they put on such letters. Shame on CIC! They could've just say that they need my FP. Period.
I was really really mad at this point and requested GCMS notes.
One month passed and I have received my GCMS notes and studied them carefully.
It came to my attention that on the day of my test, two months before I have initiated my contact, in the morning, CIC has realized that they didn't started my security and criminal background check. Next minute FP request was created - as a standard cover up for delay and to extend legally my processing time.
I am sure if I didn't initiate contact two months after my exam, I would've still waiting for my FP request.
I immediately contacted my MP once again and demand they ask CIC the new status. CIC said that I am waiting to be scheduled for the oath and after two weeks I have received the invitation.
5. We sent you a notice on January 4, 2019 to appear and take the oath of citizenship at the citizenship ceremony to be held on January 21, 2019 (Mississauga).
I am glad that my journey is over, and suggest anyone with delays to contact your local MP immediately. Bug them, demand clarification, and don't be shy. They need your vote!
I had my ceremony in the middle of nowhere in Mississauga. It took me an hour to drive from Toronto. My seat was in the front row. I suspect it is the row for people who annoyed the system and their MPs. Demand the front row! Insist to have a service for your money you paid for processing of your application. Remember, it is almost $700 after all!
I wish everyone best of luck with the applications!