Extended leave could be anything depending on each situation, so there would be no guarantee that every extended leave applicants claim could be ok for this program, at least at this point. And it will not matter whether it is a legal term or not (For example, "common-law" relationship is legally recognized to some extent, but whether each couple satisfies the condition for eligibility for some benefits depends. The couple may say they satisfy the criteria but officers may deny it).
I think the consultant I talked with was prudent enough.
Actually, if everything is really ok, IRCC say so clearly. For example, every job is ok as long as it is on NOC chart, at least for international graduate stream.
>I find the rules are pretty clear as I never used any immigration consultant in my life and never had any problems with my visa or immigration status ( I have been over 20 countries).
You never used consultants, it means you do not know about them and their job, then, you should not defame them. How come you think you are smarter than them?
Just being in 20 countries with no issue does not mean that you are better than consultants for immigration problems.
>I think the immigration office is often reasonable as long as your material makes sense.
What "makes sense" depends on each officer.
>Sometimes you need to think about why they have a certain requirement and try to explain yourself from their standpoint.
"From their standpoint"... it means things are at their discretion. That's why we should assume that nothing is guaranteed unless clearly defined by IRCC.
>this website is very good for tracking paperwork timeline that’a why I use it.
What? You are an expert, knowing things better than consultants, right? Then, why do you stick to this thread, where amateurs post their thoughts without professional expertise? How come you rely on what amateurs post without revealing who they are?