California2Canada said:
One more question on dual intent:
From what I understand, I need to show proof/ability to return home if things don't work out, get processed quickly enough, etc. I am currently doing remote online contract work for my previous boss in California. So while I'm technically not working in Canada (since I can't legally) I am working remotely for a US biz while physically in Canada. I haven't made any mention of this whenever I've crossed the border as it seemed best not to. It's always complicated enough.
However, I thought in terms of dual intent it would be a good thing to mention i.e. "I'm already working for a US company and I can simply return to the US and work for them there." But I don't know if highlighting the fact that I'm currently 'working' is going to cause problems. I've searched everywhere but can't find info on working remotely in relation to immigration other than don't mention it at the border.
Anyone know about this? Thanks much
first, there's absolutely no reason your extension would be rejected. it is very rare for pr applicants and they are very generous with us citizens, so there shouldn't be a concern. the extension application gives you implied status, so you can freely stay in canada without status until you receive notification about the extension. in the very very very unlikely chance it's denied, then you'd want to leave canada and then just enter again at a later date. (personally, i wouldn't risk the stress of being without status as an outland applicant - even though it won't affect your pr application). also, when you read the language about applying for extensions, it says you "should" - not "it is required" or "you must", so that there suggests it's not a hardlined rule; it is merely a suggestion. they will accept applications at any time really.
second, i would not recommend volunteering information to CBSA. let them ASK you about your employment before explaining it. Whenever i crossed the border, the initial officer asks the same questions: where are you going, where are you coming from, what do you do for work, who do you work for, how long do you plan to stay. so, initially you are going to be getting very simple questions, that only require simple answers. what do you do for work? "i'm a (insert title here)"; who do you work for? "i work for xyz company" or "i work remotely for xyz company". you can add the detail about working remotely upfront - but don't elaborate.
if they want to know more, they will either ask follow up questions or send you to secondary to ask for more details. to prove your us employment, all they want to see are recent paystubs (or proof of payment) and a work contract (if available). It's not necessary to tell the primary officer you can prove your US employment - that can trigger being sent to secondary. REmember your goal is to be let in at the primary window - not get sent to secondary. let them ask you to prove your us employment, then show them the proof - this makes you looked prepared. Usually, once they see that stuff, they are satisfied you are not going to be looking for work while in canada. IF they probe into your intentions and pr applications, then talk about dual intent, answer honestly and show them you understand you are only a visitor until approved for pr.
bottom line is, be prepared with items that show your ties to the us and your pr application, but do NOT volunteer information or proof of employment until they ask you for it and keep your answers short. it is not necessary to give them long stories about your intentions, what you know about dual intent (some agents don't like being told about immigration policies, since it's their job to tell you about it,) and why you're doing what you're doing. don't give them a reason to be suspicious. let them lead the conversation and don't act like you know more then them - that is what gets them cranky. more than likely, you are going to breeze through after answering their simple standard questions at primary, and you'll be shocked at how easy they went on you.
