Accept any evidence the applicant wishes to submit. If the applicant does not want
to release an original document, photocopy the evidence and certify the copy.
CAUTION: Do not hold claims for Canadian benefits for prolonged periods pending receipt of
evidence. If an applicant is unable to obtain needed evidence within a reasonable
time, transmit the claim to the Office of International Operations (OIO) without the
evidence. Advise the applicant that the responsible Canadian agency will contact him
or her directly to obtain any evidence it needs. (Designated border offices should
follow the instructions in GN
01715.325 for forwarding Canadian claims to the appropriate Canadian/Quebec agency.)