most outland sponsorship are processed abroad but outland could also be processed inside Canada......where your application is processed depends on the decision of the visa officer......your application is been processed and don't get stressed about file transfer.
https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/authenticate.do
In application "Status"......Review of eligibility: "We are reviewing whether you meet the eligibility requirements"......means your application is currently been reviewed if you meet eligibility to be issued the PR visa.
Background check is usually completed after review of eligibility.....when background check has started, the status will change to (2)....below.....
1.) Background Check: “Your application is in progress. We will send you a message when we start your background check.”.
2.) Background Check: “We are processing your background check. we will send you a message if we need more information.“
your application has only been in process for 6 months......relax....assume takes 12 moths to complete processing to reduce the waiting stress.