The circumstances are not explicitly mentioned. But being outside Canada is not one of them. They have put oath on hold till they get to see proof of return to Canada for many. I won't trust auto reply.
The below link clearly mentions to be in Canada...
That option is not available for all. Only in special circumstances. Not sure if there is any recent changes to it. The oath officer during oath explicits checks that you are in Canada.
You can request for GCMS notes and see how things are moving internally. But waiting is your only friend at 8 months. MP office, IRCC will give you 19 months ETA for any questions you will ask. Once LPP completes you will have ways to ask for updates.