Local office involvement
In certain instances, the two applications are put together and the CPC notifies the local office responsible for the first application that there is a second application in the system. The second application is put on hold. The information about the second application is forwarded to the local office so that a comparison of information regarding addresses, absences, prohibitions and other data can be made. The office responsible for the initial application will clarify any discrepancies with the client. The local office will determine the appropriate steps to take depending on the circumstances (refer suspected misrepresentation to the CMB, call client in for a personal interview, transfer file to another office).
Case Management Branch involvement
On other occasions, the case may need to be referred to the CMB because the first application is already under investigation or is in the process of being litigated. Where a first application is under investigation, the second application is put on hold pending the results.
Procedures for the processing of multiple general applications
There are times when clients decide to file a second application when they already have an active application for the same case type. This can occur, for example, when applicants realize they do not meet the residence requirements in the first application. In general, the CPC-S accepts the second application and enters a bring forward (BF) date until the outcome of the first application is known. The second application will remain on hold pending the outcome of the first application. The CPC-S usually contacts the holder of the initial file to determine what action should be taken depending on the circumstances of the case.
Withdrawal
- If the client chooses to withdraw the first application, the CPC-S will send a withdrawal form to the client. Once the signed withdrawal form is received, the CPC-S will inform the local office. The local office will return the first file to the CPC-S who will close off the file and proceed with any refunds. The CPC-S will enter the second application into the system and send it to the local office for processing.
- If the client chooses to withdraw the second application, the CPC-S will send a withdrawal form to the client. The CPC-S will close off the file and proceed with any refunds once the signed withdrawal form is received.
- If the application is withdrawn before the “capture” stage is completed, the total fee is returned. If the application is closed off after the “capture” stage is completed, then only the Right of Citizenship fee is refunded.