Entering Canada with wife to apply outland; what to say at border?

[Nasi Lemak]

Next week my wife (Macedonian) and I (Canadian) will be entering Canada with the intention of beginning her outland application. Do we tell this to the border? I suppose this is basically the same as those who are entering with the intention of applying inland.

I see issues with both:

Telling them we are entering to 'stay' and apply for her PR

• They will realize that the process takes longer than six months
• I suppose we can't say that we are intending on extending her visitor visa after 6 months

Telling them we are entering to visit (she currently has a confirmed return plane ticket within the first six months)

• If we get searched they will see all our application documents

I found another similar thread but it was regarding someone who's outland application had been filed already. Stating we are entering with "dual intent" (waiting for PR but willing to leave if required) might not work since it's obvious that her application will take longer than six months.

 

[Mapleson]

An outland application is independent of entering Canada. You say at the border the same thing that you said in order to obtain her visitor visa. If they search and find the papers you can explain the "dual intent" of submitting an outland spousal immigration application while visiting in Canada.

 

[Nasi Lemak]

Sounds logical. Thanks, Mapleson.

 

[deweysmith]

Entering with a lot of stuff (sentimental things, anything that would show her "settling") will probably be used to refuse her, be careful about what she brings.