Correct, the request from IRCC is fairly common and routine. Sometimes the message is as below as well. These days IRCC will even accept an electronically signed consent form along with govt ID due to COVID-19.
Further, if possible and if you have not done so, in order to facilitate the processing of your file, please provide consent from all applicants (including dependents over the age of 16, sponsor, co-signer, etc.) listed on the application. This will also increase the amount of information you receive within your file. The completion of these forms is not required to process your request, and IRCC does not encourage clients to break with social distancing in order to obtain these consents.
Note that if you wish to receive information about a minor within the requested file, we require consent from both parents. In the case where one parent has sole custody, please provide their consent along with a copy of the custody agreement.