Just an update - Alhamdulillah, my wife received her 5 year multiple visit visa today.
The process was relatively quick than what many people report on here. I have seen people giving lists and lists of documents to support their application. I gave minimal documents. didn't show any property. Got a job letter made showing her 1 month old job. So, as I've always believed that it really depends on the mood of your visa officer.
What I believe might've strengthened the application - was that I signed and notarized my invitation letter. and i wrote an affidavit saying that she will not overstay her allowed visit and she will not claim any benefits meant for Canadian residents e.g. health. And I also bought visitor's insurance for her and attached a copy. And I made mention of it in my invitation letter and her cover letter. Passport was returned within 4 days. I am really glad Alhamdulillah.
All the best you all. Now the wait for the PR application to be processed begins which I filed in May
Here's the final timeline
ONLINE APPLICATION SUBMITTED: 27 JUNE 2013
MED REQUESTED: 18 JUL 2013 (I asked them to use med from PR app - they okayed it 25 Jul)
ORIGINAL PASSPORT REQUESTED: 29 JUL 2013
ORIGINAL PASSPORT SENT: 29 JUL 2013
ORIGINAL PASSPORT RECEIVED IN ISLAMABAD: 30 JUL 2013
PASSPORT RECEIVED WITH VISA: 2 AUG 2013