I got a email saying below, is this AIP ? What would be next steps.
This refers to the Application for Permanent Residence you made under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class.
It has been determined that you meet the eligibility requirements to apply for permanent residence as a member of the spouse or common-law partner in Canada class. Please note that a final decision will not be made until all remaining requirements for becoming a permanent resident have been met. These requirements include medical, security and background checks for you and, if applicable, all of your family members, both in Canada and abroad, even if they are not applying to join you in Canada at this time. You cannot become a permanent resident until you and all your family members have met these requirements.
IMPORTANT: Passports for yourself and your family members must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
No I don't think so, not sure what that would officially be called but I'm sure someone will tell you.
Bases on your timeline you should be getting close to DM on both sides on ECAS. This seems to be the most reliable sign for people who applied in September, I was Sept 13 application and got DMs on March 16. My AIP and sponsor approval arrived something like two weeks after I got my landing letter from the Edmonton office on March 16, but the timing of which letter comes first varies depending on your landing office. Check ECAS for DM status, that is the real indicator that changes are happening.
Pretty sure the AIP text is as follows:
This refers to the Application for Permanent Residence you made under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class.
We are pleased to advise you that processing of your application has been completed. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada office in Edmonton IRCC will contact you to arrange an appointment for the finalization of your permanent resident application.
IMPORTANT: You and your family members, if any, will be required to present original identification document(s) to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada office at your appointment. A final decision concerning the granting of permanent residence status will be
made at that time. If permanent residence is granted, the name that will appear on the confirmation of permanent resident document is your name as it appears on your passport or identity documents.
Passport / Travel Document
You must bring your valid passport / travel document with you to your appointment at the Canada Immigration Centre. If your passport / travel document was seized by CBSA, it will be sent to the Canada Immigration Centre directly and will be returned to you at your appointment. Do not contact CBSA to retrieve it as it will not be released to you until your appointment at the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada office.
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee in the amount of $490.00 is required before you can become a permanent resident in Canada. The Confirmation of Permanent Residence document will not be issued to you until this payment is made.