₦airaland Forum

newbie715:
Congratulations

Thanks newbie715.

Your insight and decision to create the ILR platform has helped and navigated me and many others to success in different applications.

Cheers to you 🥂

Hello, house

Happy to report I have received my British passport.
3 weeks 1 day from date of application.

Many thanks to everyone in the house for your timelines contribution, updates and responses to questions and inquiries.

It's the end of my UK immigration journey. Wheew😓😥

foxyvisa:
Happy to report, I had my ceremony today the 9th.
2 weeks 3 days from receipt of Naturalisation approval.

Passport application submitted, awaiting response.

teejay231:
Hello everyone,

Congratulations to everyone.

Has anyone experienced not having the super priority payment option when completing the ILR application form? I really don't want the standard option. Thanks.

The super priority slots are usually released at midnight every day. I managed to get a slot at exactly 12:05 midnight. I kept refreshing the browser tab from 11:50pm.

Good luck

Lamakinde:
I think it depends on the Borough as I have to choose a more popular Borough where I sue to live which is 30 minutes away from where I live now. Just call them to remind them. Hopefully they will have a date for you.

You are right about the borough and council differences. I was informed my council conducts group ceremonies once every 6 weeks😳

I eventually opted for a paid private citizenship ceremony. Happy to report, I had my ceremony today the 9th.
2 weeks 3 days from receipt of Naturalisation approval.

Passport application submitted, awaiting response.

Lamakinde:
I got my citizenship approved yesterday the 6th of March 2023 and called my council today who booked me in for ceremony next week Thursday 16th of March 2023. I had my biometric done on the 18th of January 2023 despite booking immediately after Indefinite to remain decision on the 18th of of December 2022.
Timeline
ILR - Biometric (Super priority)- 18/12/23
Indefinte to remain decision - 19/12/23
Citizenship application- 20/12/23
Citizenship Biometric - 18/01/23
Citizenship Approval - 06/03/23
Called Council to book ceremony - 07/03/23
Ceremony date by Council - 16/03/23

Duration of Citizenship approval -1 month 2wks.

Thanks everyone for all the support since this journey started in 2017 July/August for first Application.

Yesssss! You got a shorter application processing duration than myself.

Congratulations

Hello house, It's being 1 week 4 days since I contacted my council for a date for my citizenship ceremony but i am still informed i have been added to a waiting list as there isn't any available dates.

They have confirmed being in possession of my paper work from home office.

Please has anyone experienced this delay in getting a date for their citizenship ceremony?

Thanks @Lamakinde. I must say I have been very fortunate with available dates I found for my application submission, biometric and approval response.

Hopefully, you get a shorter duration for your application response than I did. I wish you all the best. 👍

Lamakinde:
Congrats @Foxyvisa, am still waiting for my own. I submitted my citizenship application on the 20th of December 2022 but couldn't get biometric appointment until 18th of January 2023. So just made it barely a month from date of biometric.

Hello house, I have today received approval for my naturalisation application.

Appied 21st, December, Citizenship approval arrived 20th February.
Decision is 1 day shy of 2months from my application and biometrics.

Next, citizenship ceremony 🤗

foxyvisa:
Hello house, how is everyone doing?

Here to drop an update on my application.

My ILR application has been APPROVED, YES!!!

Here's my timeline;

Applied for ILR Route : SET(M)
Date application sent : 6/12/2022 (Super priority)
Documents submitted to UKVCAS portal: 16/12/2022
Date Biometrics Enrolled: 16/12/2022 8:00am (£132)
Decision Email Received : 16/12/2022 2:59pm
BRP Card delivered: 21/12/2022

While waiting for my ILR BRP card, I filled my Naturalisation application, documents ready. Immediately my ILR BRP arrived, I submitted my Naturalisation application, booked for biometric and LUCKILY! got a same day biometric date�


Naturalisation Application submitted: 21/12/2022
Date Biometric Enrolled: 21/12/2022 2:00pm
Awaiting decision eagerly �

Thanks to everyone who updated their application information and also those who shared their experiences.

Special thanks to @newbie715 for creating the ILR and NATURALISATION page.

They all formed my guide.

I am very grateful!!!

Naijapensioner:
CONGRATULATIONS

Thanks

Hello house, how is everyone doing?

Here to drop an update on my application.

My ILR application has been APPROVED, YES!!!

Here's my timeline;

Applied for ILR Route : SET(M)
Date application sent : 6/12/2022 (Super priority)
Documents submitted to UKVCAS portal: 16/12/2022
Date Biometrics Enrolled: 16/12/2022 8:00am (£132)
Decision Email Received : 16/12/2022 2:59pm
BRP Card delivered: 21/12/2022

While waiting for my ILR BRP card, I filled my Naturalisation application, documents ready. Immediately my ILR BRP arrived, I submitted my Naturalisation application, booked for biometric and LUCKILY! got a same day biometric date�


Naturalisation Application submitted: 21/12/2022
Date Biometric Enrolled: 21/12/2022 2:00pm
Awaiting decision eagerly �

Thanks to everyone who updated their application information and also those who shared their experiences.

Special thanks to @newbie715 for creating the ILR and NATURALISATION page.

They all formed my guide.

I am very grateful!!!

Thanks Favourablyme for the response. Fortunately, my Nigerian passport arrived in time for me to update my application.

Favourablyme:
Although it's been months since I did my application but I think I selected no because I don't have any travel document/ temporary ID issued to me. I did put the reason why I don't have my passport in every question that ask for it though.

Hello @favourablyme and house, I encountered a hitch while filling my application with regards to my expired passport.

After requesting my old passport details and also NIN documents, they requested for a valid travel document. They proceeded to state a "National identity card can't prove my identity for this application ".

This has got me worried about going ahead with the application.

Please did you receive same statement while filling your application?

And which document did you state as your "Proof of travel document" please?

Attached are the statements. Thanks.

Favourablyme:
I applied for mine with my expired Nigeria passport and my application was successful. I uploaded my old passport page,NIN pdf that was given to me when I registered, a copy of the collection slip given to me by the Nigeria HC after my biometrics and a cover letter explaining that I am still waiting for my Nigeria passport and will send to them when I receive it my application was approved and still waiting for my Nigeria passport to come .

Thanks for your response. It has given me a level of comfort regarding the delayed passport issue.

Favourablyme:
I applied for mine with my expired Nigeria passport and my application was successful. I uploaded my old passport page,NIN pdf that was given to me when I registered, a copy of the collection slip given to me by the Nigeria HC after my biometrics and a cover letter explaining that I am still waiting for my Nigeria passport and will send to them when I receive it my application was approved and still waiting for my Nigeria passport to come .

deebaby05:
Hello Wonderful people in the house,

Please any advise on what to do if new nigerian e-passport has not come as at when one wants to apply for ILR? We have done biometrics and still waiting for passports but while filling the ILR form, i indicated that new passport is delayed and gave the reasons, i also said I'll upload new passports as soon as its delivered and at the "compulsory documents to be submitted section", it asked to submit old passports. Just want to know if this will not be an issue because i won't want passports to affect the 28 day rule.

Hello @deebaby05, we appear to be having similar problems with delayed passport. Can you please update your current status or situation regarding your application without a valid passport?

I am praying applying with an expired passport will not pose any problems.

Thanks.

abubarakat:
Happy to report that I have finally passed the test at the 3rd attempt (shame dey catch me but we move!).

I tried it the first time just to see what the test was about and I unsurprisingly failed.

For the 2nd attempt, I downloaded this free app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bubblingiso.LifeintheUKTest. I did some of the practice tests, memorised the answers to some of the questions I was flagged at the 1st attempt and felt confident I could pass. I submitted and proceeded to be notified of the outcome only to be told I had failed again.

For the 3rd and final attempt, I was now tired of gambling and wasting £50 and my time for each attempt. So I began to properly study for it by reading all the 5 chapters using this website: https://lifeintheuktests.co.uk/study-guide/, did some practice tests here https://lifeintheuktestweb.co.uk/, paid for the official app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.co.tso.lituk and booked the test. Glory be to God, I passed after adequate preparation.

TLDR: Study all the 5 chapters, memorise historic dates and events, British inventions and inventors, government and court systems, the patron saints etc. All the best to everyone.

A big THANK YOU @abubarakat for this link https://lifeintheuktestweb.co.uk/.

Anyone and everyone preparing to write the life in UK exam should visit this link. Read the 14 EXAMS and memorize the questions, answers and explanation.

I can confidently inform you, like thousands of people that used the site and testified, that almost all the real life exam questions are same as the practice exams in the link above.

In my situation, I read the study material intermittently and for the life of me, couldn't memorize all the historic dates and numerous information. I started studying the practice exam questions and out of 24 questions in the life in UK exams I sat for, 23 corresponded with the practice exams in the link above.

I passed on first attempt.

Infact I booked a later date for the exam but after 1 week of practicing the exams online, I booked another closer date and told my self if I fail the exam on the first date, the 2nd date will still be available.

Well I passed and had to cancel the 2nd date

Thousands of people testify in the comments section of the practice exam daily about the similarities in questions and how they passed on first attempt. I am also testifying too.

Thanks again @abubarakat, I appreciate you.

Aphrodite007:
Loads of people don’t have the time to read a clump of information. I skipped your post at first until I read the shorter response to someone’s question and understood what you were asking, then went back to read carefully. If I hadn’t seen that shorter and more spaced form, I wouldn’t have answered your question.

It was just an advice for better writing- nothing serious.

Thanks for your advice. It's definitely serious, if you skipped the main post due to the spacing issue.
I welcome criticism.
If I understand you better, you would have preferred each paragraph to have double spacing? Or increased the line spacing? Because that post had 4 separate paragraphs.

Aphrodite007:
You can apply anytime after your 60 months. The extra months are for any circumstances that keep your abroad for less than 5 months.

Spacing your text makes it easy for people to read.

Thanks for the response. I had no idea what the extra months represented.
Concerning spacing my text, can you explain further?

Demoore:
Does anyone know if there a thread/forum for ILR applications? Thanks

None to the best of my knowledge.

Demoore:
Hi foxyvisa,
My understanding is that you need to show evidence that you have been living in the UK for 5 years to apply for ILR, if you are on the 5 years route. In essence, if you arrived in the UK on 30/12/2017, then you should be eligible to apply for ILR from 30/12/2022.

For me, I arrived here in February 2017 and I intend to apply for my ILR by February 2022, despite my BRP expiring in May. There are quite a number of benefits going on the ILR as compared to being on a temporary visa, so no need to delay. The earlier the better, especially as laws change all the time.

All the best!

Thanks for the detailed response. I was Initially bothered as to why my BRP expiration was 7 months in excess to my 5 years stay. I also intend to apply 5 years from my date of entry and hope its accepted. Thanks once again.

wallg123:
If I understand you clearly, you saying your FLR will expire on 21/7/23. If this is the case why would you want to give yourself high BP by applying for indefinite far before the expiration of your current visa ?. Where are you rushing to?.
It is stated clearly 28 days before expiration for a reason. If my maths is still correct 28days should be around ending of July 2023 (say 23-25)….If you are too eager you can attempt to apply and tell us the outcome…..

To answer your first question, no i am not giving myself BP. I explained its because of school admissions timing.
2nd, your maths is correct but July 2023 visa expiration translates to me living in the UK for 5 years 7 months. Gov.uk it states, You must complete 5 years of continuous residence in the UK. Which for me ends 30th December 2022.
Like you said, when it's time I will go ahead and apply, hopefully the 5 years calculation is accepted, fingers crossed �

deept:
Anytime from 28 days before 30/12/22 that is between 2nd Dec 2022 and 21/7/2023. Usually 28 days before the 5th year of entry

Thanks for the response. In other words, I can apply 5years from date of entry and not necessarily wait till 28 days to the expiry of the BRP.

Good day house. Its being quiet in house for weeks. Please I need clarity on my 5 years indefinite leave to remain (ilr) calculation.

I am on the 5 years route. My BRP first issue was 11th December 2017 (11/12/2017).
Arrived UK 30/12/2017.
I have been given extension and it expires 21/7/2023. With this calculation, (date of first issue to expiry) its 5 years 7 months.

In order to qualify for 5years ilr application, should I wait till my BRP expires 21/7/2023 (which will be 5 years 7 months)? Or can I calculate exactly 5 years from date of issue 11/12/2017, which will be 11/12/2022 and apply?

To summarise my date of first issue to expiry is 5years 7months but I want to apply exactly 5years from first issue (due to school admissions timing). Please I need the house opinions, must I wait till brp expires (28 day rule considered) or simply calculate 5 years from first brp issue. Thanks.

ronvlaar:
Happy New Year guys..
A quick one pls, I've paid to renew my spousal visa last week and was redirected to another site to book an appointment but there were no dates at all (due to the current conditions). But the thing is, I haven't received any form of communication from HO in regards to uploading of my docs.
When do you think I should expect to hear from them?

Same concern I had last year. You can book dates/appointments when the site informs you via email. For me, they sent a mail/link directing me to use the new app UKVCAS IDV 21 days after I filled the application online. The app which you download on your mobile phone was where I uploaded all my documents and picture. They explained that applicants whose previous biometric are less than 5 years old are qualified to use the app instead of booking appointments and going to the centres. 3months and 1 week later I got my FLR residence permit card.
Hope this helps

I applied 1st September, was invited to download the app 22nd September, I downloaded the app and uploaded my documents, did my photo capture on the app and submitted still using the app. Hope this helps.

tayeby78:
My hubby has applied since July and no response as of yet. As anyone got a reply other than an invitation to download the app?

No, they didn't request for my passport. They wrote "UKVCAS will directly contact you if additional documents are needed".

Aphrodite007:
Did you need to submit your passport by post? Or are they just going to mail you a letter on how to get your new BRP (upon success)?

Finally got invited by UKVCAS to use their IDV app to upload my documents and photo capture. Thanks for all the previous information from the house. I appreciate.

foxyvisa:
Thanks for the info. I am still waiting for the invitation for my biometrics. My BRP expires on the 22nd September, submitted my online application 1st September. I am worried about my BRP expiring without performing my biometrics. Please house anyone experiencing this delay?

Thanks for the info. I am still waiting for the invitation for my biometrics. My BRP expires on the 22nd September, submitted my online application 1st September. I am worried about my BRP expiring without performing my biometrics. Please house anyone experiencing this delay?

Lamakinde:
I have been sent the invite to use the ID App today which I have done and submitted. UKVI also sent me a letter giving me a ref for my FLRMdocuments in case I want to send letters to them about my documents.

Dear Sir or Madam



Re: My name, age (dd-Month-Year)



PLEASE QUOTE REF: 00000000 IN ANY CORRESPONDENCE.

Due to the volume of correspondence we may be unable to locate your application without this reference and your correspondence may be returned to you.



Thank you for your application for permission to stay in the UK.



We apologise for the inconvenience, but, due to the worldwide response to COVID-19, UKVI services are limited and we are not able to meet our usual service standards.



Although we would normally decide your application within eight weeks from the date it was submitted, unfortunately this may not be possible in your case.



In line with Government advice on essential travel, social distancing and other restrictions related to COVID-19, for the safety of our customers and our staff, the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UKVCAS) locations where you would ordinarily submit your biometric details and provide any documents for scanning that you have not already uploaded yourself, have been closed. Some centres are now opening with limited capacity so you may now be able to get an appointment – it is important you attend if an appointment is offered.



If your application was submitted prior to your current grant of leave expiring, your current status within the United Kingdom has been extended by section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971. You do not need to do anything else at this stage and do not need to be concerned about your immigration status.



If you have applied to switch your status in respect of your employment or studies then please refer to the guidance on Gov.UK as you should be permitted to commence work / study prior to your application being decided, should you meet the conditions set out in the guidance.



We apologise for the delay in dealing with your application and for the inconvenience this is causing. Please be assured we will do all we can to make a decision on your case as quickly as possible once your biometric details have been submitted.



We appreciate your patience at this time.



Kind regards.



Yours sincerely



FLRM VALIDATION

HOME OFFICE




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Yes I am applying within UK. Hopefully they email me on options available. So far on their website, there are no available dates for core, enhanced and premium
appointment locations. Over 10 locations and no available dates.

dustydee:
Are you applying from within the UK? If so, you will be emailed to either use an app or to book an appointment. Just upload your supporting documents and wait for them to mail you. Check the UKVCAS website for more details.

All the nearest service points available are all fully booked to October. That is, London to Birmingham. At this point, I do not mind paying for available appointment dates but I cant find any option for such. Please anyone who paid for available appointment dates, please explain how you went about it, thanks.

Demoore:
Have you checked for Premium appointments or scheudling appointments in near by towns? You may consider driving/traveling out of your locality to make the appointment. A friend of mine went all the way from London to Edinurgh for his appointment yearas ago.

Hello house, please my Visa will expire 22nd September, I have paid for my application but there are no available appointment dates for biometric from September to October. Abeg, how do I pay for appointment date. Cant find the payment option for such. Thanks

newbie715:
A schengen visa is what you need as Lexusgs430 said. As the spouse of a British citizen, at least while the UK is still in the EU, your schengen requirements are less than the regular applicants requirements, so enjoy while it lasts. Also, one schengen will cover both locations, apply to the country you are travelling to first and you will be able to visit the second as long as it is within the visa validity period.

Thanks newbie715 Time for a little vacation.