Open WP and PR sponsorship under common-law

[Teriskier]

Hello,

I am just looking for a bit of advice as I seem to be seeing mixed posts. I am about to send an inland application for PR with my common law spouse sponsoring me. I am currently in Montreal on a student visa at one of the Universities. I was wondering if it is possible to apply for an OWP at the same time as the sponsorship application. And if so, which application should I use.

Additionally, I am just wondering what the time line is for spouse sponsorship in Canada (specifically for QC).

Thanks for the advice.

 

[AllisonVSC]

I can't answer the OWP question, but time lines for processing inland sponsorships can be found here...

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/canada/process-in.asp#sponsorship

As I read it, first stage processing is running 8-9 months, and they are currently working on Apps received through Nov 28, 2009.

 

[Teriskier]

Thanks for the response, anyone out there have any advice in regards to an OWP.

Also, if there is any advice in regards to applying inland vs outland...since the application would be faster in Buffalo...just looking for advice, inland makes sense if there is an OWP but outland may make sense otherwise.

Thanks

 

[suenim]

Thanks for the response, anyone out there have any advice in regards to an OWP.

Also, if there is any advice in regards to applying inland vs outland...since the application would be faster in Buffalo...just looking for advice, inland makes sense if there is an OWP but outland may make sense otherwise.

Thanks

When do you graduate? Because if you are in a post secondary institution that takes part in the Post graduation work permit program and if you qualify, you could get an open work permit after graduation. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work-postgrad.asp

The processing times for Buffalo are usually fast for US citizens. What is your nationality? You can compare the inland times with the the country of your nationality's visa processing times and make your decision from there.

 

[Teriskier]

I wouldn't graduate for a year and a half (and it would be nice to obtain PR sometime during the time I am enrolled as I can potentially be reimbursed the international fees I had paid).

I am American, so it is only between processing in the US and Canada. Our case is fairly strong, as we have gathered photo's, travel documents, 10 letters from family and friends, copy of joint bank accounts, a formal attestation from our landlord that we live together, credit card bills showing purchases for the home (etc.). I am just hesitant to apply in Buffalo and then be called for an interview as that would make things more difficult.

Thanks for the advice

 

[suenim]

I wouldn't graduate for a year and a half (and it would be nice to obtain PR sometime during the time I am enrolled as I can potentially be reimbursed the international fees I had paid).

I am American, so it is only between processing in the US and Canada. Our case is fairly strong, as we have gathered photo's, travel documents, 10 letters from family and friends, copy of joint bank accounts, a formal attestation from our landlord that we live together, credit card bills showing purchases for the home (etc.). I am just hesitant to apply in Buffalo and then be called for an interview as that would make things more difficult.

Thanks for the advice

Well if you're American and you think you have a strong case, then the best bet is to go through Buffalo. Even if you are called for an interview and you still have a valid study permit, then you most likely wont have a problem getting back in since Americans don't need a visa. Based on the inland timelines, you probably will not get approved in less than a year. If you go outland, the US processing times are much quicker.

 

[PMM]

Hi

Well if you're American and you think you have a strong case, then the best bet is to go through Buffalo. Even if you are called for an interview and you still have a valid study permit, then you most likely wont have a problem getting back in since Americans don't need a visa. Based on the inland timelines, you probably will not get approved in less than a year. If you go outland, the US processing times are much quicker.

US citizens should always apply "out of Canada" spousal (unless they are inadmissible) the processing time for 80% of the applications at Buffalo is presently is 4-10 months, a lot faster that "in-Canada"

 

[Teriskier]

Hi

US citizens should always apply "out of Canada" spousal (unless they are inadmissible) the processing time for 80% of the applications at Buffalo is presently is 4-10 months, a lot faster that "in-Canada"

Is that the entire processing time, including First Stage Approval through the Right to Land in Canada?

 

[kelKel]

Yes processing time for Buffalo is 4-10 months for full PR Some cases have even gotten through in less than 4.

 

[sgnv]

Hello,

I am just looking for a bit of advice as I seem to be seeing mixed posts. I am about to send an inland application for PR with my common law spouse sponsoring me. I am currently in Montreal on a student visa at one of the Universities. I was wondering if it is possible to apply for an OWP at the same time as the sponsorship application. And if so, which application should I use.

Additionally, I am just wondering what the time line is for spouse sponsorship in Canada (specifically for QC).

Thanks for the advice.

I'd suggest you to send both applications together -the PR & OWP-, so if your application for Pr is approved -1st stage of approval-, Immigration will issue an OWP, otherwise you can do it afterwards, when your application reaches 1st stag and submit the OWP; although, you may have to wait the standard processing times in order to receive your OWP.

 

[Teriskier]

Thanks for all of the great advice.

It is crazy to think that after months of compiling papers and supporting documents the application is about to go in the mail.

 

[Teriskier]

If I do want to send in an application for an OWP what do I put on it for my reason for applying (since I obviously do not have an employer here)? Thanks.

I'd suggest you to send both applications together -the PR & OWP-, so if your application for Pr is approved -1st stage of approval-, Immigration will issue an OWP, otherwise you can do it afterwards, when your application reaches 1st stag and submit the OWP; although, you may have to wait the standard processing times in order to receive your OWP.

 

[AllisonVSC]

I think you need only send an app for an OWP with your PR if you are applying inland. If you go outland, you have the right to work as soon as you land which is usually about the same or faster than processing the 1st stage for inland applicants. Also, if you have a strong case and lots of good evidence it is unlikely you will have to attend an interview. Good luck if which ever way you decide to apply! Allison