vinpat said:
I still haven't heard back from them.
So I am trying to think of reasons why they might be facing difficulties processing my application.
When I look at document list for paper application it shows Family Information Form as mandatory. But in my online application MyCIC didn't ask for the family information form, and so I didn't submit it. Could this be an issue? Should I send them a case-specific enquiry with the family form attached?
To remind you of my situation: I am an Indian citizen, working in Toronto on a PGWP. Visited India for vacation without realizing that my TRV had expired. Applied online for a TRV on April 12th.
Alright, you are in the exact same boat I was about 10 years ago. I did not know either that I had to renew my VISA to get back in. I was under the impression that work permit was enough. Anyway, here is my experience. It might not help since you have already applied but nevertheless, here it is.
I was actually allowed to board the plane (they shouldn't have) from Delhi and had a connecting flight in Schiphol, Amsterdam. So when I got to Amsterdam, that is where I got stopped. They advised me that my VISA was expired and that I will not be allowed to board the plane. If they do, the Airline will get heavy fines from Canadian government under IATA law (I think). Anyways, so the next step for me was to book a flight back home. The immigration officials there were really nice and totally sympathized with my situation even though it was all my fault for not knowing the procedures. They helped me out and I booked a flight back. Interestingly, there was no flight available for the next three days. So I had to wait in the departure area for three days and two nights. I did not had a Schengen VISA, so could not leave the Airport
I then took this time to let my family know and also contacted my employer in Canada. My employer then told me that they will have a full support letter drafted by the time I reach back home. This would come in really handy. So I waited, boarded the plan and got back home. When I reached, I downloaded the well drafted letter of support and proof that I have a job in Canada and my employer provided their contact number for the immigration officials if they need to confirm anything over the phone. I took this letter, attached a photocopy of my work permit, expired VISA with some other forms that I do not remember and submitted everything to my local consulate office.
The office took 1 week to process and stamp my passport with the newly renewed VISA. And that is all I had to do. Also, the processing office told me that the support letter really helped to speed up the process. However, I am not sure if they actually talked to anybody at my company.
Having said that, I think you should be fine. Send an inquiry to the VISA office and wait patiently. You have a valid work permit and I do not see any reason for them to refuse it.
Hope this helps and all the best.
P.
