Reduced number of applications in 2015, and continuing for 2016, was predictable and predicted. As of June 11, 2015, the minimum period of time a PR had to be in Canada after becoming a PR jumped from just two years to four years, for those who were living in Canada prior to becoming a PR, and from three years to four years for all other PRs. We knew that for at least a full year, following the increase in requisite physical presence as of June 11, 2015, the number of new applications would dwindle to a mere trickle compared to the usual.
A relative "flood" of new applications can be anticipated when, pursuant to Bill C-6, those PRs who were living in Canada prior to becoming PRs will suddenly be eligible as soon as two years after becoming a PR, and other PRs as soon as three years. In other words, the scores and scores of PRs who would have been able to apply in the last year (plus however long it is before the new rule actually takes effect) if the requirement was just three years, plus more given the more lenient approach in giving credit going back five rather than just four years, will suddenly become eligible when the Bill C-6 changes take effect. Virtually overnight, the pool of eligible PRs will increase by at least 150,000 to 200,000, perhaps a lot more. It can be easily anticipated that a significant percentage of this additional number will make an application for citizenship soon after the change takes effect. That is, a flood of new applications can be expected as soon as the minimum requirement is lowered to the 3/5 rule.
