CAIPS is short for "Computer Assisted Immigration Processing System". It is the computer system historically used by CIC to process visa applications, and holds all the information on the current status of every immigration application being processed by overseas offices (ie. those outside of Canada), other than new applications at offices which have switched to using the "GCMS" system.
GCMS is short for "Global Case Management System", and is the newer computer system that IRCC is using out across their offices around the globe. It supersedes CAIPS & FOSS ... and manages all info under one umbrella. Applicants can request for their entire file of ‘Immigration Notes’ which includes detailed notes of Visa Officer.
When to order GCMS notes?
If you believe there could be a problem with your case file and/or the application is taking longer than normal, then you can order GCMS notes.
The sponsor can order online. There is a $5 fee.
When to order GCMS notes?
If you believe there could be a problem with your case file and/or the application is taking longer than normal, then you can order GCMS notes.
The sponsor can order online. There is a $5 fee.
Order online: https://atip-aiprp.apps.gc.ca/atip/welcome.do?lang=en
Steps:
Look at the top of that page:
Under Requester Information you will enter information of the Canadian citizen/PR.
You will enter Canadian citizen/PR's email address .
Are you requesting information on your own behalf?
No
*Are you requesting information concerning a deceased individual?
No
*Select the category that best describes you.
Public
How would you prefer to receive the requested records?
Continue
Under the Act & Record Selection tab:
Please select the Act under which you are submitting the request.
Access to info act.
*Which type of records do you wish to request?
Case files
Put applicant's info on this page
*What type of information would you like to request?
Notes in electronic file.
Select the file that you would like to receive.
Immigration file: permanent residence
Continue:
Then download, fill , sign and attach the consent form and send to ATIP-AIPRP@cic.gc.ca with case file number in subject line:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/forms/IMM5744E.pdf
Consent instructions:
Section A: Applicant's info and signature.
Section B: Does not apply for spousal sponsorship.
Section C: sponsor's info and select email as mode of delivery.
Pay fee via credit card. 30 days delivery time.
Unlike normal assumption of the Immigration consultants, GCMS notes are purely intended to receive information and not anything else. They cannot speed-up your application process. They can help you look for anything that may create any issue in your application processing but apart from that, they cannot do much. If you ask me, GCMS notes are not important unless your application has been stuck at the same stage for longer than the average processing time mentioned on CIC website.
You can order a set of GCMS notes from CIC website by paying a nominal $5 fee. You would need either be residing in Canada for this or need address from a person residing in Canada. Alternatively, if you do not know anybody inside Canada, you can also choose from many online services that provide you GCMS notes on a small commission.