Just wanted to pass along some recent experiences. When applying for new Amex cards, I haven't been auto-approved for a while. however, the system approves me within a day or two as my wife (who is referring me) gets her bonus. Same thing happened to her last application. No auto-approval, but the referral bonus posted in my account the next day.
This is round 2 of the biz gold for each of us. We did the biz plats earlier this year (and still hold them).