Congrats to everyone!!! It is a waiting game from here on out, and patience will have to be your best friend. I sent my application about a year ago and just got a "Decision Made" update. So, I hope I get good news any day now. I just wanted to give one piece of information/advice... I did not know about this forum when I first applied. and did not have anyone to help me.
I thought I was 100% with my application. You know - crossed all my T's and dotted all my I's, but I was wrong.
I am moving from NYC to Toronto, and needed an FBI background check (as I am sure every American will need), so I thought I would expedite the process by using an FBI channeler, which you can pay extra and get the FBI clearance quicker. FBI even promotes them on their website as "Approved FBI Channelers". Do not use an FBI Channeler!!! The CIC does not accept them and will ask that you submit a clearance directly from the FBI. This process can take up to 3 months alone. I am sure that my Spousal Sponsorship process would have taken 8 months or so, had I known not to use a channeler.
If anyone (from the States) used a channeler I suggest you submit for the background check from the FBI, just to have it in hand when the CIC requests it.
Hope this helps someone, or prevents adding time to your process.... Good luck everyone!!
