@ Teju, I'm happy to meet another person who applied through paper application. I also applied through paper application in March 2013 and receive my file number in july 2013. I have been waiting ever since then. My sponsor called Nominee last week and they told him my file is still on queue which i learnt is a good news. I learnt that they've been returning file lately 'cos they returned that of someone who is also related to my sponsor recently. Just keep contacting your sponsor to know the latest development as they unfold. I was told that change in policy has been affecting people's application. Please, keep me informed if there is any new development from your end. Thanks