Is this normal? Must show proof of PR application.

[edwardthebrand]

Hi guys, hopefully somebody can help. I am from Bermuda, recently married to a Canadian citizen. Before we were married I was issued a visitor record which was to expire at the end of last December. We went on a day trip into Detroit on the 27th and when I re-entered Canada I was questioned as to why I had not applied for Permanent Residency yet.

I was then given a new visitor record which gave me till January 10, 2016. The Border Officer told me that before that date I had to apply for PR and return to a border and show proof that I have applied.

I have two questions
First, what sort of proof is acceptable? I am thinking a receipt showing I paid for the application, and maybe the receipt from registered mail or something to show that I sent the application in? I am also thinking I should bring a copy of the application forms that I sent in. I know it is up to their discretion but should that be 'enough' evidence.

Second, the visitor record I received had the following "Remarks" at the bottom: "PC MUST APPLY FOR SPONSORSHIP. PC MUST CONFIRM DEPARTURE". What exactly is the second part saying? Based on the conversation I had with the officer it sounded like going to the border with evidence 'should' allow me an extension... but that 'departure' part has me worried about what it is actually asking.

Also, if this matters...as a Bermudian I do not need a special visa to enter Canada. I've entered Canada MANY times in the last few years without issue.

 

[HoPe90]

I think showing them proof that you sent it and paid for it plus a copy of the forms filled out would help .

In terms of the departure I am not too sure about that but they just stressed on applying for the PR I dont see why it should be an issue because a lot of people have been able to stay in the country while their PR application is being processed.

 

[Ponga]

It would also be in your best interest to read this:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/tools/temp/visa/dual.asp


Being prepared to satisfy any concerns that the CBSA officer may have about your willingness to leave Canada (voluntarily) should your PR be denied, will be helpful for you.


Good luck!

 

[HoPe90]

Thank you Ponga for the link. I actually read it and I had a question for you - I have to apply for restoration of status but at the same I also received an expression of interest from the province of ontario for PR.

In the explanation to the officer for restoration of status should I include I am also applying for PR through the expression of interest from Ontario? Reading the link made me think if I mentioned that I may be rejected restoration as a visitor because they may think I wont leave. So I am debating maybe it is in my best interest to leave that part out but one of my dilemmas is what to include in the letter for them to grant it to me. should i say i want to travel ? I am not even sure.

Please let me know

Thank you

 

[edwardthebrand]

Thank you for the response guys.
Ponga, that link was also very helpful.

I have a follow up question regarding the receipt that I will be showing.

Will the confirmation (or whatever is displayed) after making an online payment be what I should be bringing with me?

I hope to be making my way to the border tomorrow or the day after, which would be 2-3 days before I was asked to.... It may sound silly... but should I be packing a suitcase just in case or is it common to be given a few days to leave?

 

[HoPe90]

If I were you I would take the proof of payment along with copies of the filled out application. Just to be on the safe side. Take all your documents that will help you.

To be on the safe side you could pack a suitcase but you probably wouldnt even need it but just make sure you cover all your grounds.