How many time living in the UK is required to obtain a pre-settlement status?

I don't recommend that people wait the last day or week of December to apply.

It's possible that many people would try at that point and the online system may or may not be able to cope with that. If you manage to get to the page on January 1st at 3 AM, it's would be too late.

Also, there is always a risk with invalid applications. Someone may fill an application in time but if it's rejected due to mistake on name, DOB or something, there would be no further opportunity to lodge new application again.

And as other pointed out, someone may potentially fill a correct application in December but without the proper status in hand, it would be hard to access GP, Bank, school/university, work, travel...

Freemovement: Applying for settled and pre-settled status requires genuine residence

To add to the information in the link above, in the UK Immigration Rules, "residence" means more than mere presence. Just physically being in the UK does not count, nor would a short visit.

Residence generally requires signs that you are here for the long term; opening and operating bank accounts, applying for jobs, engagement with various government bodies that suggest that you will be settling in the UK for a while at least (applying for a NINo would be a start), etc.

Very interesting article indeed. I have anectodal evidence that a lot of people are playing the system. The Home Office has its hands tied behind its back when it comes to the EU Settlement Scheme. For political reasons, they say "yes" to nearly any EUSS application as the UK doesn't want to look too hostile to the European Union (yet) during this transition period.

However, once we are passed that transition period, that political pressure won't exist anymore. Then, I anticipate new procedures to see if people are genuinely eligible.

It's more important than ever to play by the book and put own bar as high as possible and document everything just in case.