2006/9：file application (Baffulo Center)
2006/10: 1st letter, file#
2007/2: A letter asked me to take IELTS, otherwise my English level would be evaluated by supplied documents. Although I had T: 600+ , G:2000+ and more than 5 years working experience at US, i deceded to just take it anyway.
2007/3: IELTS (7.5)
2007/6: case transfered to local office
2007/7: second letter, ask for ME and FBI clearance. Sent fingerprint to FBI the same day - this should be done 2-3 monthes earlier.
2007/8: ME
2007/8: Luckily get FBI clearance result in 3 weeks, sent it out the same day.
2007/12: Case approved, visa and landing paper pick at local office.
Several points:
1. IETLS is not a big deal. If you think that you will have a pretty good chance to have US green card, thus Canadian PR is just a back up. I don't think it's very important. But if you kinda count on Canadian PR, then take it. It by no means is difficult, i spent no more than one week to prepare it. All kinds of material you can downloaded on internet.
2. Finger print: I'd do it 3-4 monthes after getting file#. According to online information, it may take up to 9 weeks to get clearance from FBI. Go figure.
3. If Canadian PR is important to you, and you don't feel comfortable to DIY, I strongly recommend Maple International. They are good and patient, and has a very reasonable rate.