visiting Canada before having Stage 1 approval

[pocketfullofcheese]

I am sponsoring my wife for PR. The thing is, I am starting a job in Canada (we currently live in Mexico) in August and I would like my wife and son to come with me. We are rushing to get all our documents together for the PR application, but we have not submitted it yet (I hope this week!)

It looks like Stage 1 approval takes 55 days (as of the Website today, June 30). So, even if we applied today, we would not likely have Stage 1 approval until end of August at the earliest.

My wife already has a multiple entry Visitor's visa, and has visited Canada on several occasions.

Does anyone have experience with entering on a tourist visa when you have already applied for PR? Any risk they'll turn her away at the border? We might travel together, or she might come a bit later with our two-year-old son.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

My wife already has a multiple entry Visitor's visa, and has visited Canada on several occasions.

Does anyone have experience with entering on a tourist visa when you have already applied for PR? Any risk they'll turn her away at the border? We might travel together, or she might come a bit later with our two-year-old son.

With the multiple-entry TRV and a good history, she should be fine. Be sure that she doesn't say that she is moving or coming to live in Canada; she's just visiting you while the PR app processes. She should carry the PR fee receipt. Also, make sure that she doesn't bring more than the standard 1-2 bags; showing up with lots of belongings as a visitor is a good way to get refused at the border.

 

[rhcohen2014]

yes, i agree. bring lots of proof of the application, and your marriage certificate. if they ask for anything, those are the items they will be looking for. if you tell them you have sent in the applicaiton, they may check their system to see if it's been received yet. if it's not, having the receipts/copy of your paperwork will help prove you have sent it in already. good luck!

 

[pocketfullofcheese]

Thanks! That's reassuring.