how long it takes to get a whm visa in canada--timeline

hi all,
just a post to give you an idea of how fast one can get a whm visa right now:

-oct 20th completed online application (in montreal)
immediately prompted to make biometric appt in ottawa (i think their faster than TO)
could have made appt for next day, but took a thursday appt
-oct 23rd biometric appt attended (you dont have to have all supporting documents for this, you need a completed vaf2 (printout of online application--some autogenerated response emails say you need a vaf1--this is false: you need only one application and it is the vaf2 that the uk gov site prompts you to fill out as your first stage), 1 passport photo and passport meeting regulations, they put this together w your biometric receipt in an envelope. you have 2 weeks to submit all info together (bank statements etc) to the commission but you must do it by mail, not in person.
-oct 23rd same day, i put all documents in post express envelope (in ottawa)
-oct 24th arrived 8 30 AM as tracked by canada post
-oct 27th email from visa issuing office acknowledging receipt
-same day (27th) a few hours later, application accepted, visa issuance assured by email
-oct 28 express envelope received from postal carrier at residence in montreal
(visa issued to begin in 2 and a half months,as requested)

of course, timeframe varies, but i thought i'd give you an idea of just how quick it can be. apparently if you apply in TO you can pick up there too and avoid the postal costs, but this was super fast and efficient (if you're in montreal and looking for a cheap way to get to ottawa, there are multiple rideshares that go there and back w in a day for app $25 round trip)

supporting documents:
-1 page letter describing contents of package, character of applicant and reasons for wishing to visit
-application, passport and photo with biometric receipt in sealed envelope
-CV with description of current employment in canada (to support claim of self employment)
-bank statements for 3 months, printouts from online banking account showing name and available balance as well as printouts and statement of current balance stamped and dated by teller at local branch (balance of 3700 CAD)

hope this is helpful information. good luck!