Getting COPR while on holiday, medical expires

[little_apple]

Hi everyone

My file has been in Vienna since May 27, 2013 and everybody knows that Vienna is reeeaallly slow. Processing time is 12 months right now so I don't expect my COPR before May 2014.

I've been in Canada since March 29, 2012 and my work permit expires on March 28, 2014.

Between my expired work permit and my approved PR I would stay here as a tourist. But I really would like to leave Canada on March 27, 2014 to visit my family and friends in Germany and a friend in the USA. I planned to re-enter Canada as a tourist on April 11, 2014.

What happens if I book the flight now (because the price is not too high) but then get my COPR surprisingly in March 2014? My medical exam will expire on April 4, 2014. Does it mean my COPR will expire? I really would like to book the flight but I'm afraid I receive my COPR in the last minute and have to cancel a $1500 plane ticket.

Otherwise I would be really angry and sad if I don't fly and then receive COPR in May or June 2014.

Anyone knows anything or can tell me what to do?

Thank you

 

[Rob_TO]

My medical exam will expire on April 4, 2014. Does it mean my COPR will expire?

Generally yes... the COPR expiry date matches the medical expiry date. So if you get COPR in March 2014... it would have an expiry date of April 4, 2014 that you would have to officially "land" by.

If your case is not completed by April then a couple things could happen. CIC could simply extend the validity of your medicals, OR they will ask you to take a brand new medical.

You are right that if your status goes to "Decision Made" just before you leave on the trip, you would be stuck waiting at home for your COPR so you can land before the expiry date. I would recommend to spend a couple extra bucks upfront, and get some cancellation insurance on the airplane ticket just in case you need to cancel!

 

[little_apple]

Unfortunately, if you have to cancel because of immigration visa reasons no cancellation insurance will pay for it. It's in the fineprint :-(

 

[QuebecOkie]

We've booked trips through expedia, and they offer insurance that allows you to cancel for any reason. Pretty reasonable cost, too.

 

[little_apple]

I checked a lot of "cancel for any reason" insurances but they all have restrictions anyways. If I book a flight and can't go because I receive COPR than it's my problem. So I won't book a flight now :-(

 

[truesmile]

You're about the first person I've seen here deciding NOT to book. GOOD for you! That's great idea.

 

[little_apple]

I don't want to cancel a $1500 plane ticket. The risk is too high...