I have seen some people getting PR card even if they are outside. In my case my friend and I applied same day, same time for PR card in same Vac Edmonton. But he got it after 2-3 months as he was in canada. This is just totally unfair with us.Mine is Etobicoke office photo delivered first week February and after that no update. Sent numerous webform , order GC notes , write to ministry and sent solemn declaration form and no reply. Even they did not send me any portal for photos and I courier delivered to them in feb. they received but no replies. Ircc is really disappointed and my friend is out he got his card.
I think we need to declare once we are back in canada because in online portal there was option “ click this button and declare you are in canada”. I was left with no choice i accepted i am in Canada . But this online portal will not give me PR card. I have to apply again.