Hey there,
First off –- you're not alone. This happens more often than people think. But let me show you what IRCC actually says, so you're not just guessing.
IRCC's processing times for PGWPs are currently running 2-5 months, sometimes longer depending on volume . You're at 3.5 months since approval. That's within the window, but on the slower side.
The bigger issue is your address. You used your uncle's address in Canada, but you left Canada in April 2025.
Here's where IRCC is very clear:
You must always keep your contact information updated.
Official link:
https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/questions-answers-by-topic.asp?st=4.8
If your contact information changes – including your mailing address – you are required to update it. The physical PGWP gets mailed to the address on file. If that address is your uncle's place in Canada, technically that's fine. But here's the problem: you're not there. You're in your home country.
What the webform reply means:
That generic "we're still processing" email? That's an auto-reply. It means nothing. They send that to everyone who submits a webform. Don't rely on it.
So what should you actually do?
1 Update your address properly (if it has changed)
If you're now living outside Canada and want the permit mailed elsewhere, you need to update your address through the webform or the online change of address service. You can't email IRCC directly – they explicitly say no to that .
2 Wait a bit longer (but track the timeline)
3 5 months post-approval isn't abnormal for 2026. Processing and mail delivery have both slowed down. But if you hit 5-6 months with nothing, that's when you escalate.
3. Request a re-issuance if it never arrives
If the permit was mailed to your uncle and got lost, or never sent, you'll need to request a replacement or confirmation of the permit's status. This usually requires another webform submission specifically asking: "My PGWP was approved on X date. I have not received the physical document. Can you confirm if it was mailed and to what address?"
4. Consider what you need the permit for right now
If you're outside Canada and not planning to return immediately, the physical permit might not be urgent. You only need it to re-enter Canada and start working. If you're staying in your home country for now, you have time.
The risk here:
Low to medium. Not high. Your PGWP is approved – that's the hard part. The delay is administrative, not a refusal. But there is a risk: if the permit was mailed to your uncle's address and gets lost, or if IRCC's system shows "delivered" when it wasn't, you'll have to go through a replacement process which takes more time.
What I'd do in your shoes:
Submit one more webform. Be specific: "PGWP approved Dec 22, 2025. No physical document received as of [today's date]. Address on file is [uncle's address]. Can you confirm mailing status?"
Ask your uncle to check again – including junk mail, and ask neighbors in case it was misdelivered.
If nothing by month 5, start the replacement request process.
Official links for your reference:
PGWP help centre:
https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/questions-answers-by-topic.asp?st=15.3.4
Changing your address:
https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/questions-answers-by-topic.asp?st=4.8
Quick disclaimer: I'm not an immigration lawyer or IRCC officer. This isn't legal advice. Rules change. Always check the official IRCC website before you make decisions.
