Your friend, ticks all the correct boxes on why his file should be realistically approved quicker then others: Holder of WP, most probably inside Canada, and part of priority DO. Yes, all these cases are being prioritized and they will continue to do so, while others will wait as long as it takes! Priority cases are still being scrutinized, but IRCC's strategy perhaps is that they want most to give up, or if they dont give up, they will be wait endlessly.
I have been a SUV applicant since 2022, and like many others, it has becoming increasingly clear that WP applications have always been processed quicker based on the region someone's lives in, and maybe nationality of the applicant. With the recent C-12 bill now in force, applicants should realistically prepare for tougher scrutiny, longer processing times, and a higher likelihood of refusals or file closures, especially for cases that don’t demonstrate strong economic benefit or active business progress in Canada. If you aren't in Canada on WP already, chances are you wont be there anytime soon, nor will you get a PR anytime soon. A tough new program will be introduced later this year, but I see it being catered to target HNW clients with experience in startups just like it is in other countries. They may not close all existing applicants in the pool, but that does not mean they will process them either. Perhaps once in a while you will get a notice for medicals, documents...submit them, and that's it!
With the average processing times of 10 years for most applicants now, and the C12 law, it will be increasingly unrealistic to believe you can file and win a mandamus as well. Courts are overwhelmed as well. Recent cases by individuals who filed and lost their cases for asking quicker processing, is a testament to it.
Perhaps it is time to start looking at other countries, or programs. Although with an active application in place for SUV, the chances of getting the new one approved in Canada seems near to impossible as well.
I am sorry perhaps I am being too insensitive with this post...my sincere apologies for hurting anyone's feelings, but truth hurts!
