when to expect and how they CIC correspondes

[robertbola]

Hi guys,

My common law and myself have sent in out application for permanent residence 5 weeks ago. Since than nothing, do they email or write to confirm they have received the application? Do they only write when it get transfered to the visa office (buffalo in our case).

We live overseas, so I'm guessing mail is a little slower, however I thought I read they emailed as well. How long does the first part take?

thanks

[Boncuk]

Well for the first stage the sponsorship approval they do send a letter to the sponsor.. Did you pay your fees online? Then you can login to ecas and check your progress there.  You can also call them to find out if you have been approved by providing them with your details and your applicants.
https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas&lang=en
log in with the sponsor's details. 
As for Buffalo you can see a bunch of couples timelines here
trackitt.com/canada-immigration-trackers/family-class
You can see some have received AOR's (Acknowledgement of Receipt)
Also depending on your location for your mailing address can cause delays.