Hello fine people.
First off, would like to say thank you to everyone here for all the input while applying for PR via the CEC track.
I have a situation that I would like some advice on, any help/feedback is appreciated.
My current scenario :
Applied for CEC : Application received Feb 24th 2014.
AOR: Received on March 17th 2014.
I then used my AOR to apply for a BOWP and extend my expiring PGWP(March 31st 2013) to March 31st 2014.
So as things stand, I am on a Bridged Open Work Permit due to expire on March 31st 2014.
My concern is that I have not heard anything back regarding my application. I checked the ECAS and the status shows as 'application received' : 'We received your application for permanent residence on February 24, 2014.'
I assume that given there is a 13 month average processing time, that I should be able to receive my PR before my BOWP expires on March 31st 2014. However, in the interim I have asked to view the case notes for my application (I put in an application for this on Dec 24th and there seems to be a 30 day waiting period to receive any notes/info on my case).
My question to anyone who can help is -
1) Can I further extend my BOWP in the event that my PR application is not accepted/ready before March 31st 2014?
2) Alternatively, can I apply for any other type of work permit (closed or employee sponsored?) so as to remain in Canada while my CEC application is being processed?
3) What course of action is recommended in this situation if someone has experienced a similar scenario?
ALSO - I have read that you cannot extend you WP if you have had a total of 4 years cumulative issuing. In my case, I had a 3 year PGWP and a 1 year BOWP, but I have only worked for less than 24 months in total (other months were spent outside Canada or unemployed). Does this effect my chances to renew/extend a work permit?
Thanks in advance