I would like to add... It was reported a few months back. Canada accepts the MOST IMMIGRANTS per capita than any other first world nation. Obviously we are a prime destination and it also goes to say our process also would appear to be the most accepting. Some would say $1040 is high cost, but it was stated the actual cost incurred by Canada is much higher.
As a Candian I am offended that someone would go through the PR process and not even want to be here. Worse yet run down Canada, and yes even brag about how they are abusing the system and the generosity of Canadians. Canadians are proud to be the most accepting nation, the most helpful and generous nation (per capita). Remember we are only 30 to 35 million people. The millions of people worldwide that want to immigrate here is staggering to the size of our economy and the costs we would incur. Our economy would simply collapse if everyone who wanted to come was allowed to simply sign a form and enter. As much as we all hate to wait, myself included waiting for my wife, there must be these controls to manage the sheer numbers that wish to immigrate here. The government has stated they are making major changes to the whole immigration system. This takes time, with growing pains (unfortunately for us), and hopefully will result in a quicker, fairer process for the legitimate applicants with good intentions, who are welcome here in Canada. The numbers of fraudsters and criminals who have been abusing our system to enter Canada over the decades have resulted in this overbearing process. Yet, without it, we would be further over run with those who don't deserve to be here and reult in a drain on our system and economy, and only succeed in giving immigration a bad feeling. I think the case being mentioned is a prime example of why we need these tougher controls on who gets accepted and who not. No offense to the person, but anyone who shows such disdain for Canada should not be granted a visa. Quite frankly we do not wish to welcome those who show disdain for us and our country. Millions of others throughout the world would be very happy to call Canada home if given the chance. I suggest to anyone in this situation who does not want to live here, don't apply and withdraw your applications. Stay where you are where you will be happy.
For those who think hiring more and more people will solve the problem. Think again. There are so many millions of people worldwide who wish to immigrate to Canada if the process were made easier. Canada can only afford to pour so much resources into satisfying an endless lineup of applicants. Also there are only so many our economy can handle in a year. The problem is we are SUCH A GREAT place to live, that is why the list of applicants is always so high.
For those who end up having a longer process than the average, I feel for you I really do. I have been away from my wife for almost 3 years now, believe me I understand the frustration of waiting. But it also disgusts me the number of cases still getting through immigration that should never have been allowed in. Please all be patient. Remember that every case is different. As much as your situation is clear to you, the VO officers DON'T KNOW YOU or your story. They have to learn about you solely based on your application, and from there determine if your application meets the requirements. I can't imagine how hard it must be to sort through many of the difficult situations I have read about just on this site. So many gray areas, of course they are going to have more questions with some. Some are simple, but many many require far more checking and verifying etc and difficulty trying to determine the true nature of relationships histories etc.
For those who assume its a right to enter Canada, or any other country. No, it is not a right. It is a privilege and a generosity granted by Canada on behalf of its citizens. As such we need to respect and understand the process and requirements. We need to show patience. I believe the onus is on the applicant to prove they meet the requirements of this generosity offered to them. It is not a right. It is not like a court of law where innocent are innocent until proven guilty. Applicants should take it seriously enough to research and KNOW ahead of time what is involved in the process, the extent to which they may be required to go to meet requirements, and the potential results. No application is guaranteed successful, no timeline is guaranteed. Applicants need to understand how difficult their situation may be, and thus be prepared for a lenghty process, higher risk of denial, and extra steps that may be required. Most of us know this and accept this knowing this is the risk and the effort we must make to be with our families etc. The price we must pay.
Sorry for the long reply again, but just a little perspective. I wish all serious and legitimate applicants a very speedy and successful process. With God's good graces, and a little patience, our applications will be approved all in good time.