how to find out ILR visa application status after submission

[ramap]

Hi,
I submitted my ILR visa application under HSMP category through post around two weeks back. I did not apply in person because I couldn't get the appointment. I got a letter from immigration office saying they received it and also sent a reference number. my credit card is charged for the required amount. in the guidance form, it was mentioned that waiting time is from 4 to 14 weeks. for applications submitted after 6th April, I think the maximum waiting time is increased to 6 months. I submitted it before that.
in the home office website, it was also mentioned that applicant should not contact for the status of the application before the maximum waiting time unless the passport is needed. but I am curious to know whether everything is fine with my application, if I submitted all the required documents or not. at least an approximate estimate of how long it may take to get the visa etc. will it take 14 weeks even if all the documentation is correct and if it is a straight forward application? I am trying to call the number 0870 606 7766, but I always get the message that everyone is busy, call back later. this is not a free number to call, so I will be charged everytime I call. basically I want to know the status of my application and approximate processing time. how can I find it out? Please let me know if there is any way to get this information.

Thanks in advance
Rama.

[Dolly2]

Hello Rama,

Unfortunately, this is the number to need to call. I tried them atleast five times today but did eventually got through. It will be best to keep your Recorded delivery number or case number handy...

[mirnat]

I was a bit like u when my husband applied for ILR recently by post on 24th February 2009. All we could do was make a note of the special delivery number on the envelope in which it was sent and then await the confirmation letter from the HO saying that they had received everything. He also had to send further information in the form of a bank statement for me that had not yet arrived at the time of submitting his application and again was worried that this would not be put together with his other application papers but there was no way of actually checking. He also included with his application a pre-paid special delivery envelope for the HO to send back his application and he made a note of the number on this envelope so he could check from time to time on the Royal Mail's website whether the envelope had been registered into the system which meant that his application/decision was on route back to him. He didn't think about phoning to check on his application because the confirmation letter said not to until 70 working days had passed so he thought it would just be a waste of time and money to phone! In any event, the Home Office took 5 weeks to make their decision about his ILR application and post everything back to us.

[tech]

Can you please tell Under which Category you husband applied for ILR ? SET(M) marriage ILR is taking only few days where as SET(O) HSMP/workpermit/Tier 1 are taking months to process?

[mirnat]

My husband applied by post using Form SET(M). The Home Office took 5 weeks to make their decision and grant him ILR which we were pleasantly surprised at!