I see a lot of mixed information on myimmitracker regarding RPRF. While some pay RPRF after AOR and get their PPRs shortly after, others will also pay but not receive PPR.Congratulations, all, that have received their MEP. Please setup a profile on MyImmiTracker.com and add your details, if you haven't done so already.
I think there's been a lot of hoo-ha about RPRF and the link it might have with an imminent PPR. I have not seen evidence of such a link, and no true correllation can be drawn based on the data on MyImmiTracker and in these forums since Jan 2018 AORs (that's how far back I've been reading). An equal number of people will say that not having paid the RPRF upfront slowed down their application by a few weeks because it added a step that could not automatically be bypassed. I know that we all want something - some development - to help with anxiety and the wait, but IRCC has become less and less predictable and a lot of the old assumptions may not hold true as the organization prepares to process record numbers of candidates this year. So, just sit tight and enjoy the ride. Log in to your account often and keep checking for updates!
What you've said is true, cic has been highly unpredictable as you can see by the IP1/2 status nowadays.
I am cautiously optimistic though. I see as a good sign having received RPRF and the how to find a job letter, but I am also aware that it might not mean anything at all. I'll post here and update the tracker if I have further development
Edit: I would still recommend paying RPRF upfront, as it could avoid delays in the process. I chose not to but if I could do it again I would've paid it.