I'm a dual citizen working in the US and have a job starting June 1, 2015 in Canada. I'd like to move my wife and step daughter, both US citizens, to Canada at that time but read with dismay that the waiting time for the PR application is 18-20 months, for the total process. Is there a way for them come with some other status while waiting for the PR application and how is that done? I should have a really clean application, which is all ready except for the medical exam, could it take much less time? Finally, would hiring an immigration lawyer speed up the process? Thanks!
Moving family to Canada while spouses PR is pending.
- Thread starter swaring
- Start date
swaring said:
Not sure where you are reading that. If you read the CIC guide it links to this document: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/offices/apply-where.asp
As you can see US citizens PR apps are processed in CPC-Ottawa office. These days it's taking around 6-8+ months to complete the paperwork processing and get PRs. If you applied right now, the timing could work (but of course no guarantees on how long processing will actually take). In addition to medical your wife would also need her FBI check done.
If you are ready to move before they get PR, then all they can do is VISIT Canada. As US citizens they should be able to get 6 months visitor status at the border. Just note as VISITORS they are not expected to be permanently moving to Canada. If you all show up with a moving van full of stuff, there's a chance your family could be denied entry.
Also you should check if you can register your step-daughter in Canadian schools before she gets PR. Each school has different policies. Of course they should all also have travel emergency medical insurance before they are eligible for Canadian healthcare.
And hiring an immigration lawyer does NOTHING to speed up an application.
Thank you very much! That's good information. The FBI check and medical exam will probably take at least three weeks so I'm cutting it close. If we don't have the PR visa's I'll drive the vehicle and possessions across the border. Is there a better way for the girls to come as visitors? Do they just arrive at the airport, report the situation to the customs agent and take their chances?
swaring said:
If you drive your own possession across by yourself, as a returning Canadian you shouldn't have a problem. You might want to research the steps for importing a US car into Canada though, as it can be pretty complex.
If your wife and step-daughter cross the border separately, they also shouldn't have a problem. They should show proof of the PR app in progress, and just stress to CBSA officer that they will follow the rules for VISITORS to Canada while the PR app is processing. Once in Canada you can change the address on their PR app so when it's eventually approved CIC will mail their COPR landing documents to Canadian address.
Also I assume your step-daughter is aged 18 or under to qualify as a dependent. She will need a medical exam, but for her no FBI check is necessary.
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