reading this thread, I doubt the friend tag you have gave yourself, you may well find your "friends" view you the same way, I wouldn't be surprised if they had PR already/well into the process but told you not one thing about it (in case you dropped a dime out of "concern"). If he sold his home and cars etc, you will find they probably have a nice healthy bank balance, and CBSA love people with enough to self-support, let CBSA do their jobs you do yours.
If he is here legal or not...what business is it of yours, mine, or the dog down the streets?
Unless you work in CBSA or CIC find something else to worry about, I certainly wish the couple well.