Becoming Canadian...

I'm an American citizen and I have been in Vancouver, Canada as a legal visitor for the last year (one visa renewal via extension application). I married my Canadian fiancée and we now want to do a spousal sponsorship from within Canada but my visitor visa is expiring this month. I was told by Canadian immigration that it would be best for me to cross the border at Blaine, WA and then come back into Canada to renew my visitor visa so that I can submit the sponsorship paperwork. I'm wondering if I will have trouble getting back into Canada. Does anyone have any insight that might help us out?

Yes, there is the possibility you would have trouble crossing the border. It's unlikely, but there is that possibility every time you cross. If you don't have any particular need to go to the US, I'd suggest just submitting another extension application. Just include proof that you are applying for PR (a copy of your fees receipt).

Thank you so much for the response. I'm sending it off today with the receipt. We also decided to apply from "outside" Canada so if I need to go to the states I can. Will showing the border agents my receipt and having my husband explain he is sponsoring me, give us a better chance of crossing without hassle?

Absolutely. Have your husband speak on your behalf to the border official, explaining to them that he is sponsoring you for PR (wording here is very important... HE is sponsoring you, NOT you are applying for PR) and he would like you to be able to stay and visit with him while the application is being processed.

Good choice on applying outland! Definitely the right move, even though you'll be in Canada during the processing. So many people don't understand that it's still the right move, and hopefully your application and wait will be quick and painless! Good luck