Post
by Jambo » Tue Apr 09, 2013 1:02 pm
It is not implicit written in the form or the guide. Although the last page of the form states that a PR Card is enough.
The logic is that you need to be free from immigration control for 12 months before applying (unless you are married to a BC). PR is obtained automatically after 5 years of exercising treaty rights. The issue is how do you prove you had PR 12 months before applying. The PR Card you receive only confirms your status at the date of issue. So you either rely on the issue date and wait 1 year before applying or you provide evidence to support your claim of having PR earlier than the issue date (even if this means providing the same evidence again).
This is supported by successful applications published in the forum.