Apply for citizenship without 1095 days

[leforoz]

I'm a Canadian Permanent Resident currently residing in the USA. I want to explore my options for applying for Canadian Citizenship based on my permanent resident status.

There are a few things that I want to point out:

I have not been able to fulfill the requirements of 1095 days within Canada in the last 5 years because I had to move to the USA on a Physician Training J1 Visa with my partner.

For this Visa, the Ministry of Health Ontario issued us a Statement of Need certifying that they're sending us to the USA to get trained as a physician so that we can come back to Canada and practice as a physician.

The total amount of time we have spent in Canada is ~15 months. Our PR is set to expire in April 2024 and we are exploring our options.

IRCC website mentions that if evidence for a citizenship case is not provided, the case is sent to a judge that decides whether a person is eligible for citizenship or not. How feasible is applying for citizenship without evidence and using a Statement of Need as proof for the Ministry of Health sending us abroad and whether this can be counted as a service to the crown.

 

[shiremag]

I'm a Canadian Permanent Resident currently residing in the USA. I want to explore my options for applying for Canadian Citizenship based on my permanent resident status.

There are a few things that I want to point out:

I have not been able to fulfill the requirements of 1095 days within Canada in the last 5 years because I had to move to the USA on a Physician Training J1 Visa with my partner.

For this Visa, the Ministry of Health Ontario issued us a Statement of Need certifying that they're sending us to the USA to get trained as a physician so that we can come back to Canada and practice as a physician.

The total amount of time we have spent in Canada is ~15 months. Our PR is set to expire in April 2024 and we are exploring our options.

IRCC website mentions that if evidence for a citizenship case is not provided, the case is sent to a judge that decides whether a person is eligible for citizenship or not. How feasible is applying for citizenship without evidence and using a Statement of Need as proof for the Ministry of Health sending us abroad and whether this can be counted as a service to the crown.

If you haven't fulfilled your residency requirements of 1095 days, by law your application will have to be denied - NO EXCEPTIONS
The law is very clear on this!

 

[scylla]

I'm a Canadian Permanent Resident currently residing in the USA. I want to explore my options for applying for Canadian Citizenship based on my permanent resident status.

There are a few things that I want to point out:

I have not been able to fulfill the requirements of 1095 days within Canada in the last 5 years because I had to move to the USA on a Physician Training J1 Visa with my partner.

For this Visa, the Ministry of Health Ontario issued us a Statement of Need certifying that they're sending us to the USA to get trained as a physician so that we can come back to Canada and practice as a physician.

The total amount of time we have spent in Canada is ~15 months. Our PR is set to expire in April 2024 and we are exploring our options.

IRCC website mentions that if evidence for a citizenship case is not provided, the case is sent to a judge that decides whether a person is eligible for citizenship or not. How feasible is applying for citizenship without evidence and using a Statement of Need as proof for the Ministry of Health sending us abroad and whether this can be counted as a service to the crown.

This won't be counted as a service to the crown.

IMO the chances of citizenship being approved without the 1095 days is nil.

 

[anksyahoo]

I'm a Canadian Permanent Resident currently residing in the USA. I want to explore my options for applying for Canadian Citizenship based on my permanent resident status.

There are a few things that I want to point out:

I have not been able to fulfill the requirements of 1095 days within Canada in the last 5 years because I had to move to the USA on a Physician Training J1 Visa with my partner.

For this Visa, the Ministry of Health Ontario issued us a Statement of Need certifying that they're sending us to the USA to get trained as a physician so that we can come back to Canada and practice as a physician.

The total amount of time we have spent in Canada is ~15 months. Our PR is set to expire in April 2024 and we are exploring our options.

IRCC website mentions that if evidence for a citizenship case is not provided, the case is sent to a judge that decides whether a person is eligible for citizenship or not. How feasible is applying for citizenship without evidence and using a Statement of Need as proof for the Ministry of Health sending us abroad and whether this can be counted as a service to the crown.

do you want to trust on opinions of people on this forum for a life changing decision? I would talk to a lawyer if you really want to explore this,

 

[Raptor33]

I'm a Canadian Permanent Resident currently residing in the USA. I want to explore my options for applying for Canadian Citizenship based on my permanent resident status.

There are a few things that I want to point out:

I have not been able to fulfill the requirements of 1095 days within Canada in the last 5 years because I had to move to the USA on a Physician Training J1 Visa with my partner.

For this Visa, the Ministry of Health Ontario issued us a Statement of Need certifying that they're sending us to the USA to get trained as a physician so that we can come back to Canada and practice as a physician.

The total amount of time we have spent in Canada is ~15 months. Our PR is set to expire in April 2024 and we are exploring our options.

IRCC website mentions that if evidence for a citizenship case is not provided, the case is sent to a judge that decides whether a person is eligible for citizenship or not. How feasible is applying for citizenship without evidence and using a Statement of Need as proof for the Ministry of Health sending us abroad and whether this can be counted as a service to the crown.

Hi!

I understand your situation. It can be frustrating to be a permanent resident of Canada but not be able to apply for citizenship because you have not met the residency requirements.

The Statement of Need that you have from the Ministry of Health Ontario may be helpful in your application for citizenship. The Statement of Need shows that you were sent to the United States to get trained as a physician so that you could come back to Canada and practice as a physician. This could be considered a service to the crown.

However, it is important to note that the Statement of Need is not a guarantee that you will be granted citizenship. The final decision will be up to the immigration judge.

If you decide to apply for citizenship, you will need to provide evidence of your residency in Canada. This evidence could include things like your passport stamps, your tax returns, and your driver's license. You will also need to pass the citizenship test.
If you are not able to provide evidence of your residency, your case will be sent to a judge. The judge will review your case and decide whether you are eligible for citizenship.

The judge may consider the Statement of Need from the Ministry of Health Ontario when making their decision. However, the judge will also consider other factors, such as your length of stay in Canada, your ties to Canada, and your knowledge of Canadian history and values.

I recommend that you speak to an immigration lawyer to discuss your specific situation. An immigration lawyer can help you assess your eligibility for citizenship and help you prepare your application.

I hope this helps!

 

[dpenabill]

I'm a Canadian Permanent Resident currently residing in the USA. I want to explore my options for applying for Canadian Citizenship based on my permanent resident status.

There are a few things that I want to point out:

I have not been able to fulfill the requirements of 1095 days within Canada in the last 5 years because I had to move to the USA on a Physician Training J1 Visa with my partner.

For this Visa, the Ministry of Health Ontario issued us a Statement of Need certifying that they're sending us to the USA to get trained as a physician so that we can come back to Canada and practice as a physician.

The total amount of time we have spent in Canada is ~15 months. Our PR is set to expire in April 2024 and we are exploring our options.

IRCC website mentions that if evidence for a citizenship case is not provided, the case is sent to a judge that decides whether a person is eligible for citizenship or not. How feasible is applying for citizenship without evidence and using a Statement of Need as proof for the Ministry of Health sending us abroad and whether this can be counted as a service to the crown.

Edit to Add Caution: Be aware that this time outside Canada will NOT count toward meeting the PR Residency Obligation (let alone toward meeting the physical presence requirement for citizenship). While H&C relief may be obtained if you fail to meet the RO, to avoid the risk of losing PR status for a breach of the RO be sure to spend at least 730 days in Canada within five years.


Otherwise . . .

I agree with @shiremag and @scylla and note that this is a simple question, not one that needs the expertise of a lawyer to answer.

The provision which provides for counting days outside Canada, toward meeting the physical presence requirement, is subsection 5(1.02) Citizenship Act, which is here: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-29/page-2.html#docCont . . . it is not complex.

It states:

Any day during which an applicant for citizenship was a permanent resident within the meaning of subsection 2(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and was employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces, the federal public administration or the public service of a province, otherwise than as a locally engaged person, shall be treated as equivalent to one day of physical presence in Canada for the purposes of paragraphs (1)(c) and 11(1)(d).​

While there are exceptions, like employed as a locally engaged person, this gives a PR credit toward the actual physical presence requirement, set out in subsection 5(1)(c)(i) Citizenship Act, for days a PR is abroad:

-- employed outside Canada in or with the Canadian Armed Forces,​

-- employed outside Canada in or with the federal government​

-- employed outside Canada in or with a Canadian provincial government​

There is no harm consulting with a reputable and competent Canadian lawyer with immigration and citizenship experience (just the cost, noting lawyer consultations are generally worth no more than what you pay for), to confirm the training abroad does not constitute being "employed" by the federal government or a provincial government, and thus will not qualify for physical presence credit. But frankly that would be akin to consulting with a lawyer to ask a basic question, like how much credit an applicant is allowed for days in Canada prior to obtaining PR status . . . kind of like asking a lawyer to confirm what the speed limit is on a street clearly marked by a speed limit sign.

The Statement of Need that you have from the Ministry of Health Ontario may be helpful in your application for citizenship. The Statement of Need shows that you were sent to the United States to get trained as a physician so that you could come back to Canada and practice as a physician. This could be considered a service to the crown.

However, it is important to note that the Statement of Need is not a guarantee that you will be granted citizenship. The final decision will be up to the immigration judge.

Reminder: credit for time outside Canada depends on being EMPLOYED by the crown or a province. I am not sure what you mean by "a service to the crown," but if the OP is not "employed" by the crown, it does not get credit.

Another Reminder: Almost all decisions to grant or deny citizenship are made by a Citizenship Officer, NO LONGER referred to a Citizenship Judge. Certain questions will require review by a CJ, which is mostly about physical presence cases. However, while I am not certain I am fairly confident (based on following these issues for, well, a long while, since before most of the decision making was transferred away from CJs to Citizenship Officers, back in the Harper era and the SCCA, adopted in 2014) that questions of law (in contrast to factual disputes) are decided by Citizenship Officers, questions like whether the training here qualifies as time employed by the crown. That is to say it is unlikely this issue would result in the case going to a CJ to decide.

Going to a CJ would likely not be a good thing anyway. That process takes YEARS, which currently appears to mean at least three or four years. And given that denying the application is the probable outcome, by a considerable margin, that hardly seems to be the way to go about this.


Minister's Discretion:

There is a separate provision pursuant to which the Minister may waive some requirements for a grant of citizenship. This is set out in subsection 5(3) of the Citizenship Act (same link as above). Only in the case of a minor does this allow the Minister to waive, on compassionate grounds, the physical presence requirement (which is set out in subsection 5(1)(c) Citizenship Act).

That's a clue. That's more than a suggestion or hint about the nature and application of the physical presence requirement.

 

[canada_dreamer]

I wouldn't get advice on this issue from a forum. Talk to an actual lawyer, not even immigration consultants. Immigration consultants follow a fixed guideline and have little to no experience on how to deal with complicated cases.

 

[Raptor33]

I wouldn't get advice on this issue from a forum. Talk to an actual lawyer, not even immigration consultants. Immigration consultants follow a fixed guideline and have little to no experience on how to deal with complicated cases.

I agree with you. It is always best to consult with an immigration lawyer when you are applying for a visa or permanent residence. Immigration lawyers have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the complex immigration system. They can also help you assess your eligibility for a visa or permanent residence and prepare your application.

Immigration consultants are not lawyers and they do not have the same level of training or experience. They may be able to provide some basic information about the immigration system, but they are not able to provide legal advice.

 

[Raptor33]

I wouldn't get advice on this issue from a forum. Talk to an actual lawyer, not even immigration consultants. Immigration consultants follow a fixed guideline and have little to no experience on how to deal with complicated cases.

You do not need to have a lawyer to immigrate to Canada. However, there are some situations where it may be helpful to have a lawyer's assistance. For example, if your case is complex or if you have any concerns about your eligibility, a lawyer can help you assess your options and prepare your application.

Here are some of the benefits of hiring an immigration lawyer:

• Expertise: Immigration lawyers have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the complex immigration system. They can help you understand the requirements for the visa or permanent residence you are applying for and make sure that your application is complete and accurate.
• Representation: An immigration lawyer can represent you in front of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) if your application is refused. This can be helpful if you are not comfortable representing yourself or if you feel that your case is complex.
• Peace of mind: Hiring an immigration lawyer can give you peace of mind knowing that your case is in good hands. A lawyer can help you avoid making any mistakes that could jeopardize your application.

However, there are also some drawbacks to hiring an immigration lawyer:

• Cost: Hiring an immigration lawyer can be expensive. The cost of legal fees will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer you choose.
• Time: It can take some time to find a good immigration lawyer and get your case started. You may also need to wait for the lawyer to review your documents and prepare your application.
• Uncertainty: There is no guarantee that your application will be approved even if you have a lawyer. The IRB makes the final decision on all immigration applications, and there is always the possibility that your application will be refused.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to hire an immigration lawyer is a personal one. If you are considering hiring a lawyer, I recommend that you get quotes from several lawyers before making a decision. You should also make sure that the lawyer you choose is experienced in the type of visa or permanent residence you are applying for.

I hope this helps!

 

[dpenabill]

I wouldn't get advice on this issue from a forum. Talk to an actual lawyer, not even immigration consultants. Immigration consultants follow a fixed guideline and have little to no experience on how to deal with complicated cases.

However, there are some situations where it may be helpful to have a lawyer's assistance. For example, if your case is complex or if you have any concerns about your eligibility, a lawyer can help you assess your options and prepare your application.

I might be persuaded to take the advice to not "get advice" here, despite that advice to not get advice from here (Russell's paradox looming large), but it is worth noting that not all advice is created equal even outside the confines of the lawyer-client relationship.

I generally steer clear of offering advice, trying to focus instead on sharing information (with reference and links to sources if the source is not obvious), like here in reference to the qualifications for a grant of citizenship and, in particular, what exceptions there are to the actual physical presence requirement. However, I do not hesitate to offer foundational advice; for example, I will advise citizenship applicants to be truthful, and "if in doubt, follow the instructions; otherwise, yep, follow the instructions." I will further propound that not only is this sound advice, no consultation with lawyers necessary, I will urge others to not take the advice of anyone who suggests to not follow such advice. No advanced degrees in jurisprudence necessary to dismiss such bêtise.

Leading to the query here, by @leforoz. Thing is, this is NOT a complex issue. NOT a complicated case.

No "advice" necessary. The basic information about eligibility for a grant of citizenship answers the question: if not employed by the Canadian government, or a Canadian province, NO, no doubt about it, the time outside Canada will not get credit toward meeting the actual physical presence requirement. Any suggestion to the contrary is misleading.

I referenced, quoted, and linked the statutory provision governing the only possible exception to the actual physical presence requirement that might (albeit clearly does NOT) apply to @leforoz's circumstances.

While it is not official, the information IRCC provides online is generally reliable (especially if it can be confirmed, as it can be here, by reference to the applicable statute) and it likewise clearly addresses the query posed. Sure, the guide for making the citizenship application does not, itself, fully address this, any exception pursuant to which there might be credit for days outside Canada (the exception will so rarely apply it would likely be more confusing than helpful).

However, the guide (which is here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-0002-application-canadian-citizenship-under-subsection-5-1-adults-18-years-older.html#Step1 ) does link to the "Check if you are eligible to apply for citizenship" tool (which is here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-citizenship/become-canadian-citizen/check-eligibility.html ), which says:

"In very rare cases it is possible that time spent outside of Canada can count towards the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship"​

and which in turn links to the FAQ "Can I count any time I’ve spent outside of Canada toward the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship?" which is here: https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=370&top=5

Which information, again, is not complex, not complicated, not confusing, but rather makes it clear that the PR must be "employed" as a crown servant (not, for example, just engaged in some activity that could be characterized as "a service to the crown" (again, whatever that is supposed to mean).

Meanwhile, what makes this important, is that this time outside Canada also does NOT count toward meeting the PR Residency Obligation. While the only cases I can recall (as officially reported in published IAD decisions) did not result in the loss of PR status, those who had been abroad for the kind of training that @leforoz references had to appeal decisions terminating their PR status and rely on H&C relief to avoid the loss of their PR status.

Note: none of this is to discourage consulting with a reputable, competent immigration lawyer. But, if perchance a lawyer advises this time will count, it would be most prudent to seek a second opinion, from a better more competent lawyer.

 

[scylla]

I might be persuaded to take the advice to not "get advice" here, despite that advice to not get advice from here (Russell's paradox looming large), but it is worth noting that not all advice is created equal even outside the confines of the lawyer-client relationship.

I generally steer clear of offering advice, trying to focus instead on sharing information (with reference and links to sources if the source is not obvious), like here in reference to the qualifications for a grant of citizenship and, in particular, what exceptions there are to the actual physical presence requirement. However, I do not hesitate to offer foundational advice; for example, I will advise citizenship applicants to be truthful, and "if in doubt, follow the instructions; otherwise, yep, follow the instructions." I will further propound that not only is this sound advice, no consultation with lawyers necessary, I will urge others to not take the advice of anyone who suggests to not follow such advice. No advanced degrees in jurisprudence necessary to dismiss such bêtise.

Leading to the query here, by @leforoz. Thing is, this is NOT a complex issue. NOT a complicated case.

No "advice" necessary. The basic information about eligibility for a grant of citizenship answers the question: if not employed by the Canadian government, or a Canadian province, NO, no doubt about it, the time outside Canada will not get credit toward meeting the actual physical presence requirement. Any suggestion to the contrary is misleading.

I referenced, quoted, and linked the statutory provision governing the only possible exception to the actual physical presence requirement that might (albeit clearly does NOT) apply to @leforoz's circumstances.

While it is not official, the information IRCC provides online is generally reliable (especially if it can be confirmed, as it can be here, by reference to the applicable statute) and it likewise clearly addresses the query posed. Sure, the guide for making the citizenship application does not, itself, fully address this, any exception pursuant to which there might be credit for days outside Canada (the exception will so rarely apply it would likely be more confusing than helpful).

However, the guide (which is here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-0002-application-canadian-citizenship-under-subsection-5-1-adults-18-years-older.html#Step1 ) does link to the "Check if you are eligible to apply for citizenship" tool (which is here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-citizenship/become-canadian-citizen/check-eligibility.html ), which says:

"In very rare cases it is possible that time spent outside of Canada can count towards the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship"​

and which in turn links to the FAQ "Can I count any time I’ve spent outside of Canada toward the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship?" which is here: https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=370&top=5

Which information, again, is not complex, not complicated, not confusing, but rather makes it clear that the PR must be "employed" as a crown servant (not, for example, just engaged in some activity that could be characterized as "a service to the crown" (again, whatever that is supposed to mean).

Meanwhile, what makes this important, is that this time outside Canada also does NOT count toward meeting the PR Residency Obligation. While the only cases I can recall (as officially reported in published IAD decisions) did not result in the loss of PR status, those who had been abroad for the kind of training that @leforoz references had to appeal decisions terminating their PR status and rely on H&C relief to avoid the loss of their PR status.

Note: none of this is to discourage consulting with a reputable, competent immigration lawyer. But, if perchance a lawyer advises this time will count, it would be most prudent to seek a second opinion, from a better more competent lawyer.

I agree. This is not a complex case at all. It's extremely straight forward. OP doesn't qualify for citizenship.

 

[yyzstudent]

I agree with you. It is always best to consult with an immigration lawyer when you are applying for a visa or permanent residence. Immigration lawyers have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the complex immigration system. They can also help you assess your eligibility for a visa or permanent residence and prepare your application.

Really?!

student - PGWP - implied status - PGWP - implied status - out of status - closed work permit (LMIA applied 3 times) - PR application processing - >this close< to being denied PR - approved PR - Citizenship application - oath scheduled July 14, 2023.

Consulted with 2 consultants and 1 lawyer. Neither could help. Did everything myself. I researched here, read as much as I could get my hands on, learned to use the search function on the board, asked questions when I didn’t find the answer, read the immigration manual, asked some more questions on here.

No lawyer or consultant touched any of my paperwork at any time.

Also, study permit and citizenship application were both during times IRCC were on strike. Just my luck.

 

[scylla]

Really?!

student - PGWP - implied status - PGWP - implied status - out of status - closed work permit (LMIA applied 3 times) - PR application processing - >this close< to being denied PR - approved PR - Citizenship application - oath scheduled July 14, 2023.

Consulted with 2 consultants and 1 lawyer. Neither could help. Did everything myself. I researched here, read as much as I could get my hands on, learned to use the search function on the board, asked questions when I didn’t find the answer, read the immigration manual, asked some more questions on here.

No lawyer or consultant touched any of my paperwork at any time.

Also, study permit and citizenship application were both during times IRCC were on strike. Just my luck.

The user you're responding to is a bot that posts quite a bit of misleading and downright wrong info. I wouldn't bother engaging. Waste of time.

 

[yyzstudent]

The user you're responding to is a bot that posts quite a bit of misleading and downright wrong info. I wouldn't bother engaging. Waste of time.

Thanks. Blocking the bot. At least my response can lead to people thinking twice about using consultants/agents/lawyers.Just look at what happened with the students who got here after paying tens of thousands of dollars to a guy who issued them fake college acceptance letters. They could potentially face deportation now.

 

[Raptor33]

I might be persuaded to take the advice to not "get advice" here, despite that advice to not get advice from here (Russell's paradox looming large), but it is worth noting that not all advice is created equal even outside the confines of the lawyer-client relationship.

I generally steer clear of offering advice, trying to focus instead on sharing information (with reference and links to sources if the source is not obvious), like here in reference to the qualifications for a grant of citizenship and, in particular, what exceptions there are to the actual physical presence requirement. However, I do not hesitate to offer foundational advice; for example, I will advise citizenship applicants to be truthful, and "if in doubt, follow the instructions; otherwise, yep, follow the instructions." I will further propound that not only is this sound advice, no consultation with lawyers necessary, I will urge others to not take the advice of anyone who suggests to not follow such advice. No advanced degrees in jurisprudence necessary to dismiss such bêtise.

Leading to the query here, by @leforoz. Thing is, this is NOT a complex issue. NOT a complicated case.

No "advice" necessary. The basic information about eligibility for a grant of citizenship answers the question: if not employed by the Canadian government, or a Canadian province, NO, no doubt about it, the time outside Canada will not get credit toward meeting the actual physical presence requirement. Any suggestion to the contrary is misleading.

I referenced, quoted, and linked the statutory provision governing the only possible exception to the actual physical presence requirement that might (albeit clearly does NOT) apply to @leforoz's circumstances.

While it is not official, the information IRCC provides online is generally reliable (especially if it can be confirmed, as it can be here, by reference to the applicable statute) and it likewise clearly addresses the query posed. Sure, the guide for making the citizenship application does not, itself, fully address this, any exception pursuant to which there might be credit for days outside Canada (the exception will so rarely apply it would likely be more confusing than helpful).

However, the guide (which is here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/guide-0002-application-canadian-citizenship-under-subsection-5-1-adults-18-years-older.html#Step1 ) does link to the "Check if you are eligible to apply for citizenship" tool (which is here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-citizenship/become-canadian-citizen/check-eligibility.html ), which says:

"In very rare cases it is possible that time spent outside of Canada can count towards the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship"​

and which in turn links to the FAQ "Can I count any time I’ve spent outside of Canada toward the physical presence requirement when applying for citizenship?" which is here: https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=370&top=5

Which information, again, is not complex, not complicated, not confusing, but rather makes it clear that the PR must be "employed" as a crown servant (not, for example, just engaged in some activity that could be characterized as "a service to the crown" (again, whatever that is supposed to mean).

Meanwhile, what makes this important, is that this time outside Canada also does NOT count toward meeting the PR Residency Obligation. While the only cases I can recall (as officially reported in published IAD decisions) did not result in the loss of PR status, those who had been abroad for the kind of training that @leforoz references had to appeal decisions terminating their PR status and rely on H&C relief to avoid the loss of their PR status.

Note: none of this is to discourage consulting with a reputable, competent immigration lawyer. But, if perchance a lawyer advises this time will count, it would be most prudent to seek a second opinion, from a better more competent lawyer.

I agree with you that this is not a complex issue and that the information on IRCC's website is clear and easy to understand. The FAQ you linked to specifically states that the only exception to the physical presence requirement for citizenship is for permanent residents who are employed as crown servants. I also agree that it is important to note that time spent outside Canada does not count towards meeting the PR Residency Obligation.

I would not discourage from consulting with an immigration lawyer, but I would recommend that they seek a second opinion if the lawyer they consult with advises that their time outside Canada will count towards the physical presence requirement.

Thank you for providing this additional information. It is important to be clear about the requirements for citizenship and to avoid misleading information.