Hello,

I've been in Canada as a visitor for bit over a year now. Some time ago I applied for a temporary work permit. I had a positive LMO, proof of funds, letter of offer, etc. Today I received a letter of refusal from CIC Centre in Buffalo. The reason given was that they didn't believe that I'd qualify for the job.

While this is untrue, I can see how someone might think that. The job offer is from a translation company. They offered me a job after I passed their language test, and the LMO came back as positive too. (When I told the company about the refusal, they were really surprised, and were willing to provide additional documentation on the language test, to help me apply again.) And while I know that my English language abilities are sufficient - I've written and spoken the language for over twenty years - I have no official proof of that. No degree, no certificate. Only a ton of English prose, a positive LMO opinion, and the language test score.

I'd really hate to give up at this point, though. I don't intend to become a permanent resident in Canada, but after having been somewhat directionless in life for some years (working in various different fields), I truly want to have this opportunity to do something that I'm not only good at but also enjoy. I have every confidence in my skills, but how do I prove them to someone who has to evaluate my case mostly on paper?

I intend to go to Niagara Falls to apply in person at the port of entry, there. The questions that I have are these:
1) Do I need to cross over to US to apply?
2) Would it be ok for me to write a letter that would explain my history and experience with the English language?
3) Should I include the letter of refusal in the new application?
4) As my current status as visitor is pending, what's going to happen if they again refuse the work permit?
5) Do I need a medical exam, though I've been in Canada for more than a year?
6) What exactly is the process at the port of entry?

Thanks for anybody who can help. This board has been and is a great support.