I was able to link the app before the AOR1.
If you check your GCKey account, it is written there, to expect delays in the emails.
What I did
1. Called CIC everyday unti they confirmed that a temporary application number has been assigned. The number starts with an “X”.
2. I checked the ECAS account without “X” until it started showing me the application details.
3. In parallel, I tried to link the application.
4. I was able to link the application in GCKey in a few days.
I got AOR1 after 3-4 days after linking my application.