Visiting my wife during application

[Korma]

I'm soon to send off my immigration documents over to my wife in Canada so she can submit it all to be processed; during this time I intend to stay with her in Canada as we're sick of being apart. We're a little concerned about me being given entry to Canada when I come to visit, though.

What's the best thing to say to the border officer when I land? We're very concerned that there'll be nothing to prove that I intend to return to England if I tell them the truth... I'm leaving my job so I can stay in Canada with her as a visitor while the application processes (she makes enough money to support both of us, so no issues there), and I'm currently living with my dad so I really have no ties back to England like a house of my own, which I can imagine would cause concern for the officer.

Is it best to tell the truth? I honestly want to, but as I say I am very concerned I'd be turned around and made to fly back to England.

Also, I was wondering if someone could clarify how long I am able to stay in Canada. Both times I've landed prior, I haven't had an expiry date written in my passport when it's stamped - does this mean it's defaulted to the maximum of 6 months? This is the max for British citizens it seems.

One final question - how simple is extending a visitor's visa? The entire application process is likely to take longer than 6 months... would I have any issues extending it to 12 months, for example?

Thanks for your help!

 

[CharlieD10]

Explain and bring proof of your submitted application (airwaybill, receipt for payment of fees). Say you would like to visit with her for as long as you can until such time as a decision is made. Have proof, if possible, of her ability to support you (pay stub, bank statement, whatever). Buy a return ticket if possible, even if you don't intend to use the return portion.

6 months is the default period for visa-exempt persons. When you apply for the extension, attach proof of your PR application, such as the sponsor approval letter, which you will have by the time you need an extension. Many American, British and other visa-exempt spouses are granted extensions with no trouble, provided they complete the application properly and submit all needed documents.

 

[Korma]

Thank you Charlie - that sounds like sound advice.