Hi All,
I applied for my citizenship in March 07, wrote the test a couple of months later, I was given a RQ at the test as I do not meet the 1095 day physical presence requirement - have to travel abroad on my work and am falling short by 141 days. Sent all possible docs (400 pages) in May 07, online status still shows "in-process". Spoke to local MP late last year who said that they were processing cases (similar to mine) of mid 2006 and that there was a shortage of citizenship judges....my PR card expires Mar 09....
My wife is already a canadian citizen as she spent only 21 days outside Canada and we applied separately knowing that my case would be dragged on..
Do I need to get hold of a immigration lawyer to speed up my review process?
Your thoughts are welcome!
Thanks!

Well I don't think that you need a lawyer as you still have almost 11 months before your PR card expires. You can sort out the matter yourself as in the meantime you will gain the 141 days in your case. Even if the PR card expires before you get the citizenship, it can always be renewed, what's the hurry?
Also you mentioned that you appeared for the test within 2 months of applying, I thought it takes 4-6 months atleast before you get a letter to appear for the test. Best of Luck.

****My wife is already a *Canadian citizen* as she spent only 21 days outside Canada and we applied separately knowing that my case would be dragged on.. ****

Hang in there, after 142 days they will open the files and provide you with the response.

I don't forsee a lot of delay or problems. But watch out for more interrogation, when they call you for an interview. Plead with the judge on humanitarian grounds. It always works.

Good Luck.

Freddie.