What were the reasons for the refusal? IAD thought we needed a full hearing, which could be a day or two. But we got offered a 3 hour time slot and won in 2 hours. Although we had age difference, culture, and religion difference, we had answered all reasons for refusal. As well I visited a total of 9 times. We sent in maybe 40 more photos, phone bills, boarding passes. I did not include money transfers. Evidence was presented. Our lawyer asked a few key questions, both the member and CSBA agent made notes and cross examined me. They both had a list of their own questions. After maybe 20 minutes we took a break for the IAD member to take a call. Then we attempted to call my husband, my phone cards which were working the day before did not work. But the security guard who was manning the phone, just said we will use the government calling card and that worked. Now initially we thought we would ask for an interpreter so no answer lost in translation. Then we changed our minds. So she was only on standby. Good thing too as her Arabic was Lebanon, and my husband didn't understand it. Our lawyer asked him a few key questions, they cross examined, and then each asked their own. After about 15 minutes perhaps, the IAD member asked what the CSBA thought, he said he had no issues, was willing to set aside the refusal. The member said she agreed and told us congratulations. Ours took 2 hours. Some ppl take a day or two.
I find it great reading to go back to old posts from January 2017 til now. Also there is a website where you can read cases like our appeals online. CanLii. I never stopped reading, making notes. The testimony from yourself and spouse goes along way, as long as your answers gel with each others.
They will ask the questions that were just posted. Be prepared for all. They will not ask all.
