1. Timing for Submitting a GCMS Notes Request
Application Timeline: Since you submitted your application on 28th July 2024 and received the AOR on 9th January 2025, there's s typically a lag between when you receive the AOR and when an officer starts actively reviewing your file. You're re correct that the officer may not have fully reviewed the application within just two weeks of the AOR.
Ideal Timing: Its generally recommended to wait about 30-60 days after the AOR before submitting a request for GCMS notes. This gives the immigration officer time to assess your file, so the notes will contain more meaningful updates regarding your eligibility, security, or criminality checks. Since it has only been two weeks, you might benefit from waiting another 2-4 weeks before applying.
2. Filing GCMS Notes from Outside Canada
GCMS Notes Filing under Privacy Act vs ATIP:
The Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) system governs requests for GCMS notes. Under the Access to Information Act, only Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or individuals physically present in Canada can make a request. However, under the Privacy Act, individuals outside Canada can still request GCMS notes related to their own immigration file.
When filing under the Privacy Act, the content of the GCMS notes will be identical to what you receive under the Access to Information Act. Both acts provide access to the same system; the difference is eligibility criteria for filing the request. So, you can proceed with confidence under the Privacy Act.
Eligibility to Submit GCMS Notes by Yourself:
If you are outside Canada, you cannot submit the request directly unless you meet the residency criteria for the Access to Information Act.
To file a request while outside Canada:
1. You can hire a representative (such as an immigration consultant or lawyer) based in Canada.
2. Alternatively, ask a friend or family member in Canada to file the request on your behalf. You would need to provide them with a consent form (IMM 5744 or IMM 5475).
Recommendations:
1. Wait Before Applying: Since itsonly been two weeks since your AOR, consider waiting at least another month before submitting a request. This will increase the likelihood of your notes having meaningful updates.
2. Filing Process from Outside Canada:
If you wish to file the notes now, either:
Hire a Canadian representative or
Ask a trusted contact in Canada to file the request for you under the Access to Information Act with a signed consent form.
Alternatively, you can directly request under the Privacy Act using the Government of Canada official portal, which ensures you will receive the same GCMS notes.
