What to say at the border?

[sariss]

My fiance is coming to Canada in May. We will be getting married (here) in August, then (hopefully) beginning the immigration process to have him here permanently.
I know the process takes time, so I have a feeling he will at some point have to go back to the United States.

I heard that you can stay in Canada for 6 months - that is the plan, but I am curious what to tell them at the border? I'm visiting my girlfriend for 6 months? I assume they need to know the timeframe, or else how do they know you overstayed? Should you tell them that you are going to get married, or will that just raise suspicions that you won't return home?
Also, when you apply for an extension, when is the best time to do that? How long are the extensions, another 6 months?

Thank you guys!

 

[Tiggilicious]

Id just say you are visiting a friend. If they ask, then Id tell the truth and say 6 months.

And you can apply for an extension upto when your current status expires - which then it takes about 4 months to get back (as of right now), and if its approved they can grant it for a year - but its best to have proof of your permanent resident application being sent - so giving them a copy of the fee's, etc.