CIC has some additional tips for you to follow so that your application is not delayed:
Make sure all the necessary information is included with your application.
Tell the visa office about any changes to the information on your application.
Do not make unnecessary inquiries to the visa office.
Make sure the photocopies and documents you provide are clear and readable.
Provide certified English or French translations of documents, where indicated by CIC.
Apply from a country where you are a citizen or permanent resident.
Your application will be delayed if the visa office has to take extra steps to assess your case.
Your application will take longer if:
there are criminal or security problems with your application;
your family situation is not clear because of a situation such as a divorce or adoption that is not yet complete or child custody issues that have not been resolved; or
the local visa office has to consult with other CIC offices in Canada or abroad.