Depending spouse of a Post Grad Student in trouble.

[desperate17]

Hi All,
I have a unique issue. I am a spouse of an International Post Grad student. We came to Canada about one year ago, and I posses a valid open work permit; depending on my spouse's study permit. Our visas are to be expired in January 2010, but extendable, since her studies are yet to be over. (and going to continue for her PhD)
But our relationship is in a shaky situation and she said that she is not going to renew my status here from next Jan. I have no issue right now, because we're legally married, but she's planning for a seperation in the future. I'd like to know what are the options I have.
I am a professonal & a qualified individual, with one year of Canadian work experience (not all the experience are in my field of expertise).
(1) Can I apply for FSW right now, alone; without my spouse?
(2) Will the CIC ask what happened to my marriage & my wife? Will it be a problem for my current status?
(3) If I apply right now, is it possible for me to get an extension for my visa till I get the PR?
(4) If she is willing to reconcile in the future, is it possible to cancel the FWS application and go ahead as the dependent open work permit. (since it is easy)

Please help me providing some credible solutions. I have been searching for advice all around. But had no luck. (: I have no much time left to work on this.

Thanks in advance.

[Leon]

1) You can apply for FSW right now under category 3 as somebody who's been working in Canada for 12 months.

2) You will list your spouse since you are still married but you can list her as a non-accompanying dependent

3) No, there are no extensions just because you apply for PR.  You could also try to get your employer to apply for your LMO and change your work permit to a temporary permit tied to that employer.

4) Yes, you can cancel your FSW at any time

Call CIC though and ask about this stuff.  They may be able to give you other options.

Another idea.. offer your wife a deal.  She renews your open work permit and you apply for FSW for you both.

[desperate17]

Thank you so much for your reply. It is greatly appreciated.

What is the direct help line to CIC. I tried a couple of 1-800 numbers but all of them are automated.

[desperate17]

Actually I found the CIC number. Thanks.

[Leon]

The call centre on their website starts automated but after you go through the first couple of menus, you can press 0 to get a person.