Can I stay in Canada?

[AndyPEI]

Hey,

I am in Canada with a Visitor Record that expires on Jan 25th 2013. I am sending my application in this week as a spouse for Permanent Residence - am i able to stay in past the 25th Jan if I have sent in my application or do i have to leave on the 25th if I haven't heard anything back from the CIC?

Also, am I allowed to leave the Canada during my application process?

 

[sunsun]

Please read spousal sponsorship

 

[AndyPEI]

Thanks for the info.

Am I correct in assuming that I just need to include an extension to stay application in the envelope with my PR application and this will give me implied status?

 

[amikety]

Thanks for the info.

Am I correct in assuming that I just need to include an extension to stay application in the envelope with my PR application and this will give me implied status?

If you're applying Inland and submit the application before your VR expires, you're on Implied Status until a decision is made.

If you're applying Outland, you need a new VR.

Personally, I prefer to have the VR anyway. Seems easier than explaining Implied Status.

 

[AndyPEI]

Ok I think I am getting my head around this.

Is it better for me to apply outland then? Am I able to travel if I apply outland?

 

[sunsun]

Please read Spousal sponsorship (again) was posted by Leon

 

[amikety]

You're able to travel either way. The risk is if you're denied re-entry to Canada for any reason, your application is considered abandoned. The chances of you being denied at the border with your spouse is low for an American, especially once you have Stage 1 approval. Still, many won't recommend it - it would be horrible to lose your application and the fees.

I'd recommend you use the search bar to search for "Inland versus Outland" topics and "Americans crossing border" topics (or use similar search words) and read up on the experiences of others.

 

[AndyPEI]

great, thanks for all the info guys. Just one final question: if i apply outland do I need to travel down to the border to just ask for a new Visitor Record?

 

[amikety]

great, thanks for all the info guys. Just one final question: if i apply outland do I need to travel down to the border to just ask for a new Visitor Record?

No, you can do the extension by mail or online with MyCIC. I prefer online because you upload documents so it's faster if you need anything.

I've gone so far as to tell them I'm applying for my PR, but haven't gotten my police clearance back (it takes forever, so it that first) and asked for the VR. If you have a clean record, you shouldn't have much of an issue. When you ask for the VR, they will ask how you plan to support yourself and require you upload documents. I use my husband's paystubs.