My wife's friend applied in June or July 2011 (local office Montreal). Did the test in Dec 2012 and then after received an RQ letter in Jan 2013. 1 month after doing the test. Is this still possible? Are there regulations about when an RQ is usually issued or is it arbitrary?
RQ can be issued at discretion at any point officer or CJ touches your case before oath. For Montreal you can see post-test RQ's issued anywhere between 0-8 months after test.
Can't remember when this was but I recall an applicant being pulled out of the oath room due to mumbling or otherwise unclear elocution of the oath so its not not over until you get the oath signed, sealed and delivered...even then CIC can come after you without a time limit if they uncover any misrepresentation. They may or may have not been RQ afterwards but the risk is there especially if you left Canada soon after submission at day 1096 and have been away for so long that your PR status is/ may be in jeopardy! Any PR issues = No Oath!