Good to see updates, isn't it?? Even if they are confusing, sometimes.
I finally got an official SA on Jan 22nd. That is 4.5 months after receipt of app. Not happy about the time that has passed, but still glad that at least the first stage is over. No letter on the file transfer yet, I am not sure how long after SA that happens, but I assume within a couple of weeks.
As far as medical req and biometrics req go, CIC is not very consistent with sending these. Sometimes SA comes before and these requests come shortly after. Keep checking for new messages on GcKey and status on ECAS. It will happen.
Biometrics are definitely a requirement for everyone now. BUT - medicals and biometrics will not delay the processing of your application. They probably will not even touch your app for the next little while, so that gives you plenty of time to complete both requests. (within 30 days though)
You will have to upload a receipt for payment of biometrics, I think, because you haven't paid it upfront since it wasn't needed back then. The time taken to complete all of this is included in the total processing time stated on the IRCC website, so don't worry too much. Just do what they ask and always make sure there is a confirmation on their end that submitted docs were, in fact, received.
I know it is frustrating when they don't update anything online, but it is a common thing too. Try to breathe, focus on other things and good things will happen eventually... (this is the same advice I give myself every day
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