Someone who submitted their PR card application through the online permanent resident portal asked whether they still needed to physically mail any part of the application (such as photographs), and whether/how they could link the application to their GC Key account for tracking.
What the thread clarified:- For inland applicants who apply online, there is no need to physically mail any documents, including photographs — everything is handled through the online submission.
- You can link the application to your GC Key account after receiving your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). IRCC sends an email at that point with the specific details/instructions needed to complete the linking, which then lets you track the application's status directly.
The practical takeaway: an online, inland PR card application is fully digital — no mailing required — and tracking becomes available once you link your GC Key account using the instructions sent in your AOR email.