1. 16 months processing is for older apps like us or those whose app had been sent to Damascus in the beginning n due to office closure transferred to Ankara which caused a huge backlog even on all apps transferred directly to Ankara. if u check the spreadsheet ull see almost all late 2012 apps had been processed in 6-7 months.
2. sure u can follow the different stages of the app procedure through CIC (Citizenship and Immigration Canada) website.
there are 2 steps in processing family sponsorship applications. step 1 to be done in Canada (checking sponsor's eligibility) and step 2 (when the app is sent to Ankara for further processing n checking the eligibility of the person to be sponsored).
3. there would be no difference if u guys get married in Iran or another country cuz getting married in another country has nothing to do with ur wife's country of resindence. getting married in Iran could be even better cuz u ll get the chance to have a traditional iranian wedding if like n send them pictures along with the family members as a marriage proof to immigration.
so, it would be the best if u marry as soon as possible n send complete docs to have a fast processing just like many of those who have applied lately.
