Successful PEO/PSC ILR applications

Dear All,

My tier set (O) ILR was approved today at Croydon PEO. Below snapshot

Appointment at 11.30am
Biometrics 12.00 pm
Then long long wait till 4.30 pm
I saw on the screen my case is under consideration at 4.30.pm only
17:00 called and advised ILR granted.

Documents I kept
Letter from employer
3 months bank statements and payslips
All p60s so far on tier 2
All p45s from ex employers on Tier 2
Covering letter advising my immigration history, and application is for ILR under Tier 2
U.K. masters degree
Life in the U.K.

I must say Saturday they have very less staffs so be mindful guys. This forum has helped me a lot to get advice and I thank Moderators and all for their inputs.

Wish you all success with the ILR application

Dear All

Just want to share about our experience today @PEO Sheffield. My Mrs SET LR was approved today.

Appointment at 08.10am
We reached @ 07:30, Doors open @07:45
Security Check @ 07:50
Document taken @ Reception @ 08:00
Biometrics done 08:15
Told us it will take 1 hour to decide the application. Took our phone number to call us.
Left PEO Sheffield @ 08:20
Got call@ 09:20 We were right outside the building enjoying the sun.
ILR approved and got the documents back @09:30.

I made 3 sets of file.

1. Set LR form with all passports including 3 british passports of my kids.

2. Original Supporting documents
Ielts B1
LIUK test
Council Tax bills last 6 years.
last 3 months joint bank statements
My last 2 P60's and 3 months payslip
Kids Birth Certificates
Marriage Certificate
Joint bank statements covering last 7 years

3. Photocopies of All above.

If u want the process to be quicker make copies of all supporting documents.

Nice and pleasant experience @ PEO Sheffield. Staff was really amazing including the security staff.

Best of luck All.

Route to ILR wrote: ↑

Thu Apr 19, 2018 8:12 pm

Dear All

Just want to share about our experience today @PEO Sheffield. My Mrs SET LR was approved today.

Appointment at 08.10am
We reached @ 07:30, Doors open @07:45
Security Check @ 07:50
Document taken @ Reception @ 08:00
Biometrics done 08:15
Told us it will take 1 hour to decide the application. Took our phone number to call us.
Left PEO Sheffield @ 08:20
Got call@ 09:20 We were right outside the building enjoying the sun.
ILR approved and got the documents back @09:30.

I made 3 sets of file.

1. Set LR form with all passports including 3 british passports of my kids.

2. Original Supporting documents
Ielts B1
LIUK test
Council Tax bills last 6 years.
last 3 months joint bank statements
My last 2 P60's and 3 months payslip
Kids Birth Certificates
Marriage Certificate
Joint bank statements covering last 7 years

3. Photocopies of All above.

If u want the process to be quicker make copies of all supporting documents.

Nice and pleasant experience @ PEO Sheffield. Staff was really amazing including the security staff.

Best of luck All.

Congrats on your successful application. I would be grateful if you can explain how you manage to arrange premium appointment for SET LR. Each time I checked it says there are no appointments in the next 45 days in all PEO centers.

Route to ILR wrote: ↑

Thu Apr 19, 2018 8:12 pm

Dear All

Just want to share about our experience today @PEO Sheffield. My Mrs SET LR was approved today.

Appointment at 08.10am
We reached @ 07:30, Doors open @07:45
Security Check @ 07:50
Document taken @ Reception @ 08:00
Biometrics done 08:15
Told us it will take 1 hour to decide the application. Took our phone number to call us.
Left PEO Sheffield @ 08:20
Got call@ 09:20 We were right outside the building enjoying the sun.
ILR approved and got the documents back @09:30.

I made 3 sets of file.

1. Set LR form with all passports including 3 british passports of my kids.

2. Original Supporting documents
Ielts B1
LIUK test
Council Tax bills last 6 years.
last 3 months joint bank statements
My last 2 P60's and 3 months payslip
Kids Birth Certificates
Marriage Certificate
Joint bank statements covering last 7 years

3. Photocopies of All above.

If u want the process to be quicker make copies of all supporting documents.

Nice and pleasant experience @ PEO Sheffield. Staff was really amazing including the security staff.

Best of luck All.

Update


SET LR Appointment: 19/04/2018
Approved Same day: 19/04/2018
BRP First delivery Attempt: 23/04/18
BRP Delivered: 24/04/2018

Not happy with DX Service. Idiot DX courier guy didn't knock the door and left a card That no one present and rearrange the delivery. Even though we were at home including some guests and no one heard the knock.

Rockefeller wrote: ↑

Mon Apr 23, 2018 8:45 pm

Route to ILR wrote: ↑

Thu Apr 19, 2018 8:12 pm

Dear All

Just want to share about our experience today @PEO Sheffield. My Mrs SET LR was approved today.

Appointment at 08.10am
We reached @ 07:30, Doors open @07:45
Security Check @ 07:50
Document taken @ Reception @ 08:00
Biometrics done 08:15
Told us it will take 1 hour to decide the application. Took our phone number to call us.
Left PEO Sheffield @ 08:20
Got call@ 09:20 We were right outside the building enjoying the sun.
ILR approved and got the documents back @09:30.

I made 3 sets of file.

1. Set LR form with all passports including 3 british passports of my kids.

2. Original Supporting documents
Ielts B1
LIUK test
Council Tax bills last 6 years.
last 3 months joint bank statements
My last 2 P60's and 3 months payslip
Kids Birth Certificates
Marriage Certificate
Joint bank statements covering last 7 years

3. Photocopies of All above.

If u want the process to be quicker make copies of all supporting documents.

Nice and pleasant experience @ PEO Sheffield. Staff was really amazing including the security staff.

Best of luck All.

Congrats on your successful application. I would be grateful if you can explain how you manage to arrange premium appointment for SET LR. Each time I checked it says there are no appointments in the next 45 days in all PEO centers.

Hi,

I know its very hard these days to book a same day appointment. my advise to u is check the appointment @ midnight (sharp 00:00). First i booked croydon appointment and than changed it to sheffield. As sheffield PEO is the best to give same day decision if your case is straight forward.

1. Category.
SET(O) from Tier 2 5 years.
2. Number of dependents.
0
3. Total cost.
£2,887.00
4. PEO branch.
Liverpool
5. Documents provided.
Set(O) form. + 2 passport photo + current passport + tier 2 brp
Life in the UK Cert.
Master Degree (in the UK)
3 months payslips + bank statement
Employer's letter (which shows SoC, current salary, and expecting me to continue the employment)
Absence letter (from current employer, I couldn't get a letter from previous one)
previous visa letter (I was holding PSW visa before Tier 2, so attached those originals, and copy. But they returned both)
6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years.
Nope
7. Any Additional Comments.
a. I have a gap between employment which is more than 100+ days. First Tier 2 visa granted Feb.04.2013, but didn't apply ILR until now as I had the gap. After April, the rule, 245AAA(b) has been removed, so applied and granted without issue.
b. I couldn't get an absence letter from previous employer, as they are totally closed. that's why I was made redundant (it was a sudden ramp down). During the employment with previous employer, I went out of the UK twice(I was holding Tier 2), one holiday (22 days in total, Annual leave + weekends), one working on-site (26 days).
as I couldn't get an absence letter from them, I provided below as a proof.
For holiday : flight ticket, payslips and bank statement, which covers the period.
For working on site :
I got a letter that time which stated the 26 days was working on client side upon employers requests, so provide them as a proof. Also provided a hotel receipt as it shows it is booked under employer's name.
However, they also returned those documents and told me that it is not NEEDED.
Other than that, I handed over the current employer's absence letter.

PEO appointment Apr 13. 2018 11:00 AM. Arrived and got a waiting number at 10:10 AM.
First call 10:30 for handing over my applications, got another waiting number for brp.
Called for Brp at 11:20, and heard i would get the result soon as it is a bit quiet that day.
another call at 12:10 with a good news . they returned all "not required" docs + originals to me.
DX failed to deliver BRP Apr 17, so requested re-deliver to work place, and got it Apr 24.

Thanks for this forum, and every single one answering or helping each other.

Sreeni83 wrote: ↑

Sat Apr 14, 2018 9:25 pm

Dear All,

My tier set (O) ILR was approved today at Croydon PEO. Below snapshot

Appointment at 11.30am
Biometrics 12.00 pm
Then long long wait till 4.30 pm
I saw on the screen my case is under consideration at 4.30.pm only
17:00 called and advised ILR granted.

Documents I kept
Letter from employer
3 months bank statements and payslips
All p60s so far on tier 2
All p45s from ex employers on Tier 2
Covering letter advising my immigration history, and application is for ILR under Tier 2
U.K. masters degree
Life in the U.K.

I must say Saturday they have very less staffs so be mindful guys. This forum has helped me a lot to get advice and I thank Moderators and all for their inputs.

Wish you all success with the ILR application

@Sreeni83, did you get your BRP?

Hello All
I would like to thank all moderators and users for this invalueable forum, helped me a lot to understand things for my successful ILR application. I would like to add my experience of the application process.

1. Category. Tier 2 General
2. Number of dependents. None (i have 2 dependents but they will need to apply separately)
3. Total cost £2297 (but this was updated in April 2018)
4. PEO branch. Croydon
5. Documents provided.

• • -All passports
    -BRP
    -Letter from employer - employment confirmation
    -Life in the UK pass certificate
    -last 2 bank statements
    -last 4 payslips
    -last year's P60
    -Payslips and P60 endorsement letter from employer (as my P60 and payslips are printouts from online system and not originals)
    -Degree certificate with transcripts
  
  
  6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years. None
  7. Any Additional Comments. None
  
  The appointment was at 10AM, was allowed to reach the reception at 10AM not before that. Was only allowed to enter the building 15 mins to 10AM not before that.
  Biometric at after initial document check with office which took about 15 mins - 10.30AM
  Was given the decision by 1PM
  
  I did one mistake this with this application form. I had printed the application form before 6th of April 2018 and assumed that the application form would not change. However this morning before my application at 10AM, i noticed that i dont have the updated application form with me and had to download and fill out the new application, sign all documents and take photocopies and with hours to spare!
  So my advice to you all is to run through the final checklist with caution checking all points, dont assume anything without checking, even the version of the application form could be a problem if not checked properly!
  
  Oh also take a second set (photocopy) of application form and all original supporting documents, this will speed up processing time.
  
  Hope this helps someone.
  Cheers!

• Category: Tier 2 General (SET O)
  Number of dependents: None
  Total cost: £2962 (premium for a Sat appointment)
  PEO branch: Croydon

Documents provided:
1. Application form + 2 photos
2. Cover letter outlining my case (not sure if it helped or not but was advised on this forum to put one in)
3. Bank statement (last 3 months)
4. Payslips (last 3 months)
5. LIUK pass certificate
6. UK Master’s degree certificate
7. Letter from employer (stating required details eg. foreseeable future, job code, salary, holiday allowance etc. and that payslips are electronic and no stamp/sign required)
8. Letter from line manager only certifying last 1 year’s absence from UK
9. List of absence from UK in last 5 years (just an excel print out with only my signature at bottom)
10. Copy of all previously held UK visas (incl. PSW and Student visa) as history of UK immigration

Photocopies of items 2-9

Also provided Current and Old passport and BRP card

Timeline
• Appointment time: 1050, 21 April
• 1040: Reported at Reception: Registered and provided the token number
• 1130: Called for Case Registration
• 1145: Biometrics enrollment
• 1400: Decision (sneaked out at 1300 to get lunch and got back just in time around 1345)
• BRP arrived: 26 April

All the best!

Alhamdulillah , finallt got it!
Category: SET(O), 5 years on Tier 2
No dependents
Total Cost: 2887
Croydon PEO

Docs:
1. application+appointment time+payment+2photos
2. passport(1) + current BRP
3. Employer letter from HR stating salary, SOC code, services needed until so and so date (HR was unwilling to put open ended contract end dates)
4. Letter from head with absences since start of employment (5 years 3 months)
5. A very general letter from payroll stating that whatever emplyee presents as payslips is authentic
6 6 months payslips (stamped and signed as well just to be on safe side)
7 6 months bank statements (last few months were just print and stamped at branch)
8. LIUK
9. UK degree
10. first Tier 2 visa approval letter
11. copy of BRP issued 5 years ago

I didn't include any cover letter.

Docs returned were: 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10
They kept original and photocopies of the three letters from the employer, and kept photocopies of LIUK, degree, BRP (from 5 years ago) and passport. (Might give an indication as to what the important docs are)
BRP received: 30/04/2018

aaliya1986 wrote: ↑

Sat Jan 20, 2018 5:39 pm

Alhamdullilah. I have a good news.
Been on this forum and an everyday reader. Been following all of your stories and was happy every time I saw a success story. Now here is my story.

1. Category: SET LR
2. Number of dependents: 0
3. Total cost: £2887.00
4. PEO branch: Croydon
5. Documents provided:

• SET LR Form – Typed on computer, Black INK
  - All passports covering duration
  - LIUK Pass Certificate
  - UK Degree
  - Visa and travel summary outlining all travel and visas got during this time
  - Uni Letter (On Request)

6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years: No
7. Any Additional Comments.

Booked the appointment 42 days in advance. Made and took a file but it was not allowed by the Data Entry admins so make sure you don’t spend too much time and resources in making a file, even document folders or paper clips were not allowed. Booking time was 09.30am but I was allowed in at 8.30am, very happy. As suggested by others, airport style security, absolutely wonderful and friendly staff, didn’t feel I was in Home Office. By 09.30am biometrics was done and I was waiting for decision. After some time I got 3 calls on my mobile which I missed, ha. But then my name was called out, but it was not the answer but a letter from uni was asked, which was with me and provided. 1pm, ticket number called again, and it was the news which gave me shivers, I was told that the application was accepted, was very happy.

My advise, don’t give all documents, just give what is asked but keep all documents. I had all documents but I did not give all extra documents, just what they wanted. Make your and their life simple.

Called my mum dad and we all cried. It is a relief, thank you all on this forum, namely makky, thank you for your guidance and moral support,

Now I don't know what to do next. It's got a bit boring to be honest

Congratulation, Please can you kindly post your Visa time line ?

Hello All
I have received my BRP yesterday and I wanted to thank all the members and moderators for their valuable support. It feels great to be among such a wonderful set of people.This is my experience.

Appointment: 30th April
BRP arrived : 17th May

1. Category. Tier 2 General
2. Number of dependents. None (I have 2 dependents but they will need to apply separately)
3. Total cost £2999
4. PEO branch. Solihull
5. Documents provided.
-All passports (Current and Previous)
-Two photos with full name written in the back
-BRP
-Letter from employer - employment confirmation, SOC, salary and foreseeable future required
-Letter from employer confirming annual leave
-Last 12 payslips
-Bank statements covering 12 months of pay
-Five P60 (2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014)
-Payslips and P60 endorsement letter from employer (as some of my P60s and payslips are printouts from online system)
-Degree certificate
-Life in the UK pass certificate

Photocopies of all, except the application.

Few hiccups:
1. When I arrived, my name was not in the list. They asked me if I haven't received any call few days back saying it was cancelled. Since I didn't receive any, I said no. Then they said, lets see what we can do. And luckily they agreed to see me which was a big relief.
2. BRP did not arrive within 10 working days. This was reported through BRP nor arrived link. Four days later I have received it.

Process:
The appointment was at 1:30 PM, arrived at 12:45 and after the hiccup 1 (above), they said to come back at 1:30 sharp. Application was taken around 2:00. I had two folders prepared, one originals and one photo copies. When I started taking one by one form the original folder, the case worker said just give me both. I was asked to wait for biometric to be taken. Around 3:00 I was called for bio-metrics. Thereafter I was told I can leave the building. Went for a coffee, was looking for the phone constantly. Around 3:30 got a call from a blocked number asking me to come and collect my documents. Was bit nervous as they didn't say whether it was approved or not. When I arrived, the receptionist said your application has approved and gave me the original documents. (Make sure you've check all your originals are there. They seem to keep all the online prints, even the signed ones. My older P60s were mixed up with those and was not in the doc list. Anyway they sorted it quickly and it was returned to me.)

Hope this helps someone. And good luck to all!!

Category Tier 2 General - Set (O)
Number of dependent: 1 (spouse)

Visa History:
Got visa issued from abroad: 06/06/2013
Arrived in the UK: 23/06/2013
ILR applied on 14/05/2018 (yes you can apply 28 days before your visa ISSUE DATE)
Employer changed: none
Any holidays outside more than 180 days: none
Total international trips: 12

Documents submitted:

Original passport and copies
BRP cards and copies
UK degree for the English language
B1 Trinity certificate for dependent
2 - life in the UK
Letter from the employer for foreseeable future and SOC code
Letter from the employer for holidays abroad
4 years p60s
6 payslips
Bank statement 3 months
Marriage certificate
3 Tenancy agreements
Council tax for 5 years
Few random bills to prove cohabitation

Appointment: 09:15
Case registered: 10:15
Got documents back with the successful application letters: 13:00

Best of luck and thanks very much to all.

Hi Guys,

I got my ILR application approved yesterday 22 May 2018. My sincere appreciation to everyone in this forum.

1. Category. Tier2 General
2. Number of dependents. 1
3. Total cost. £5998
4. PEO branch. Glascow
5. Documents provided.
i. Form Set O Application form
ii. Letter from employer: stating my base salary, SOC code, dates in/out of the UK on business trips, and required for foreseeable future comments. I also got a letter confirming that my payslips (6 months payslips) are true and authentic copies.
iii. Current passport
iv. 2 Old Passports
v. 2 photos (They returned one though)
vi. BRP card
vii. UK MSc degree
viii. Life in the UK pass certificate
ix. 6 months payslips
x. 6 months bank statements
xi. All previous Home Office Approval letters(Tier 4 student visa, Tier 1 PSW, Tier 2 General, Tier 2 General Extension)
xii. Spreadsheet of my UK absences in word format for all absences within the qualifying period.
xiii. Marriage certificate
xiv. photocopies of all the above documents except form set o.

6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years.No.
7. Any Additional Comments.I did not submit any council tax bills, utility bills, and P60 with the application although I had these documents with me in case they asked for it.

Once again, many thanks to everyone on this forum.

I haven't posted before but read through a lot of this thread before my application.

1. Category: Tier 2 General
2. Number of dependents: None
3. PEO branch: Croydon
4. Documents provided.
i. Form Set O Application form
ii. Letter from employer: base salary, SOC code and salary, dates in/out of the UK, and requirement for foreseeable future employment. I also got a letter confirming that my payslips (6 months payslips) and P60s are true and authentic copies. The letter also asked for discretion to be granted as I exceeded 180 day absence.
iii. Letter from previous employer: base salary at the time, dates in/out of the UK, and explanation of the 180 day+ absence while employed at previous employer.
iv. Current and previous passports
v. 2 photos
vi. BRP
vii. Life in the UK pass certificate
viii. 6 months payslips
x. 1 month's original bank statement + 5 months' printed copies (not stamped)
xi. Previous Home Office approval letters (excluding one from 2012 which I had lost)
xii. Spreadsheet of my UK absences in excel and word format for all absences within the qualifying period.
xiv. photocopies of all the above documents except form set o.

5. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years. Yes - approximately 8 months a few years ago due to a work secondment. In addition to the letters from my current and previous employer, I submitted a letter from myself explaining the absence and asking for a grant outside the current rules.
6. Other comments: Half the staff were taken up with Windrush cases. Arrived at 9:50am for an appointment at 10:10am. Everything was very slow and the information boards were not accurate - I was eventually called up around 4:45pm to be told that ILR had been granted.

Hi Waqar, Have you received your BRP ? My application was also approved on 14th May and I am still waiting for BRP to be delivered.

waqarsadiqali wrote: ↑

Fri May 18, 2018 10:00 am

Category Tier 2 General - Set (O)
Number of dependent: 1 (spouse)

Visa History:
Got visa issued from abroad: 06/06/2013
Arrived in the UK: 23/06/2013
ILR applied on 14/05/2018 (yes you can apply 28 days before your visa ISSUE DATE)
Employer changed: none
Any holidays outside more than 180 days: none
Total international trips: 12

Documents submitted:

Original passport and copies
BRP cards and copies
UK degree for the English language
B1 Trinity certificate for dependent
2 - life in the UK
Letter from the employer for foreseeable future and SOC code
Letter from the employer for holidays abroad
4 years p60s
6 payslips
Bank statement 3 months
Marriage certificate
3 Tenancy agreements
Council tax for 5 years
Few random bills to prove cohabitation

Appointment: 09:15
Case registered: 10:15
Got documents back with the successful application letters: 13:00

Best of luck and thanks very much to all.

Hi Ozozie,

I just saw your post and was thrilled. I must say I am in a somewhat similar situation baring details of your extended absences. Please is it possible you tell me how long you were out of the UK beyond 180days and did you use any compelling circumstances.

I came in 2010, studied and have worked for the same employer since then. 1st with PSW and tier 2 (general). In 2015 I was sent on secondment to Nigeria to work and unfortunately in the same period my foster parent was diagnosed with Cancer and passed on after 4-5months during which I had to stay in Nigeria.

Please see below my absences if I chose to apply in March 2019. I will appreciate it if you could lend me some tips.

Mar-18 to Mar-19 0
Mar-17 to Mar-18 0
Mar-16 to Mar-17 152 days
Mar-15 to Mar-16 283 days compelling circumstance - Ill and deceased relative
Mar-14 to Mar-15 111 days

Ozozie wrote: ↑

Wed May 23, 2018 11:52 am

I haven't posted before but read through a lot of this thread before my application.

1. Category: Tier 2 General
2. Number of dependents: None
3. PEO branch: Croydon
4. Documents provided.
i. Form Set O Application form
ii. Letter from employer: base salary, SOC code and salary, dates in/out of the UK, and requirement for foreseeable future employment. I also got a letter confirming that my payslips (6 months payslips) and P60s are true and authentic copies. The letter also asked for discretion to be granted as I exceeded 180 day absence.
iii. Letter from previous employer: base salary at the time, dates in/out of the UK, and explanation of the 180 day+ absence while employed at previous employer.
iv. Current and previous passports
v. 2 photos
vi. BRP
vii. Life in the UK pass certificate
viii. 6 months payslips
x. 1 month's original bank statement + 5 months' printed copies (not stamped)
xi. Previous Home Office approval letters (excluding one from 2012 which I had lost)
xii. Spreadsheet of my UK absences in excel and word format for all absences within the qualifying period.
xiv. photocopies of all the above documents except form set o.

5. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years. Yes - approximately 8 months a few years ago due to a work secondment. In addition to the letters from my current and previous employer, I submitted a letter from myself explaining the absence and asking for a grant outside the current rules.
6. Other comments: Half the staff were taken up with Windrush cases. Arrived at 9:50am for an appointment at 10:10am. Everything was very slow and the information boards were not accurate - I was eventually called up around 4:45pm to be told that ILR had been granted.

Yeah, I have got my BRP in 3 working days. Any luck with yours now?

arv100 wrote: ↑

Thu May 24, 2018 11:47 am

Hi Waqar, Have you received your BRP ? My application was also approved on 14th May and I am still waiting for BRP to be delivered.

waqarsadiqali wrote: ↑

Fri May 18, 2018 10:00 am

Category Tier 2 General - Set (O)
Number of dependent: 1 (spouse)

Visa History:
Got visa issued from abroad: 06/06/2013
Arrived in the UK: 23/06/2013
ILR applied on 14/05/2018 (yes you can apply 28 days before your visa ISSUE DATE)
Employer changed: none
Any holidays outside more than 180 days: none
Total international trips: 12

Documents submitted:

Original passport and copies
BRP cards and copies
UK degree for the English language
B1 Trinity certificate for dependent
2 - life in the UK
Letter from the employer for foreseeable future and SOC code
Letter from the employer for holidays abroad
4 years p60s
6 payslips
Bank statement 3 months
Marriage certificate
3 Tenancy agreements
Council tax for 5 years
Few random bills to prove cohabitation

Appointment: 09:15
Case registered: 10:15
Got documents back with the successful application letters: 13:00

Best of luck and thanks very much to all.

Not yet, I have reported this via BRP Not received Link on 28th May. Still waiting...

waqarsadiqali wrote: ↑

Mon May 28, 2018 2:22 pm

Yeah, I have got my BRP in 3 working days. Any luck with yours now?

arv100 wrote: ↑

Thu May 24, 2018 11:47 am

Hi Waqar, Have you received your BRP ? My application was also approved on 14th May and I am still waiting for BRP to be delivered.

waqarsadiqali wrote: ↑

Fri May 18, 2018 10:00 am

Category Tier 2 General - Set (O)
Number of dependent: 1 (spouse)

Visa History:
Got visa issued from abroad: 06/06/2013
Arrived in the UK: 23/06/2013
ILR applied on 14/05/2018 (yes you can apply 28 days before your visa ISSUE DATE)
Employer changed: none
Any holidays outside more than 180 days: none
Total international trips: 12

Documents submitted:

Original passport and copies
BRP cards and copies
UK degree for the English language
B1 Trinity certificate for dependent
2 - life in the UK
Letter from the employer for foreseeable future and SOC code
Letter from the employer for holidays abroad
4 years p60s
6 payslips
Bank statement 3 months
Marriage certificate
3 Tenancy agreements
Council tax for 5 years
Few random bills to prove cohabitation

Appointment: 09:15
Case registered: 10:15
Got documents back with the successful application letters: 13:00

Best of luck and thanks very much to all.

Hi Donakola

I was also quite nervous before I went in! I expected the process to be a lot more painful and lengthy than it was.

I did not rely on any compelling circumstances. My one big absence due to a work secondment was just over 7 months. Looking back or forwards 12 months from that absence, the total absences for the 12 month period (counting according to the new rules) was between 220-235 days.

I think the reason I was granted it anyway is because under the old rules I would have been fine - I could break up my absence so that one year had approximately 100 days' absence and the other year had 150. I pointed this out in my cover letter, as well as showing how each of the factors in page 17 of 18 of the HO Guidance https://assets.publishing.service.gov.u ... 6.0EXT.PDF applied to me and caused me "exceptionally harsh consequences". This included saying that (a) the absence took place long before the rule change was published; (b) it was a one-off and I had otherwise been habitually resident in the UK and had built a life here; (c) refusal would be harsh as I couldn't extend my Tier 2 General again as I was about to hit the 6 year limit.

I think your case is a little different because you are relying on the compelling circumstances (your relative) rather than the retrospective application of the new counting system. Even under the old rules you would have been relying on the same exemption. If you haven't already, I suggest reading through the Home Office Guidance, particularly page 11 of 18. Make sure you provide all the evidence you have available - medical certificates or death certificates, correspondence you had from the time etc.

If any of your other absences breach the 180 day limit due to the new counting system, I suggest that you also point out that under the old rules you would have been fine (except for the 15/16 absence).

[quote=donakola post_id=1639461 time=1527339998 user_id=195682]
Hi Ozozie,

I just saw your post and was thrilled. I must say I am in a somewhat similar situation baring details of your extended absences. Please is it possible you tell me how long you were out of the UK beyond 180days and did you use any compelling circumstances.

I came in 2010, studied and have worked for the same employer since then. 1st with PSW and tier 2 (general). In 2015 I was sent on secondment to Nigeria to work and unfortunately in the same period my foster parent was diagnosed with Cancer and passed on after 4-5months during which I had to stay in Nigeria.

Please see below my absences if I chose to apply in March 2019. I will appreciate it if you could lend me some tips.

Mar-18 to Mar-19 0
Mar-17 to Mar-18 0
Mar-16 to Mar-17 152 days
Mar-15 to Mar-16 283 days compelling circumstance - Ill and deceased relative
Mar-14 to Mar-15 111 days

Hi all my ILR application was approved today so posting the details:

1. Category - SET(O) 5 year route with Tier 1 (Ent) and Tier 2 (2 employers) combined
2. Number of dependents. 1
3. Total cost. £6000 (approx)
4. PEO branch. Croydon
5. Documents provided.

For time spent in Tier 2
3 months payslip
3 months bank statement showing salary deposit
Absence from UK schedule provided in template provided by solicitor
Current employers letter (certifying SOC, absence, salary etc)
Similar letter from ex-employer
Life in UK test certificate
English language proof

For time spent in Tier 1
Company registration and directors list
Financial statement for the years I was in tier 1 along with accountants letter
Invoices to show trading
Bank letter to show £50K deposit that was used for Tier 1 (Ent) application

For Dependent
Co-habitation documents (join bank statements, NHS letters, HMRC letters, Council tax statement, Home office letters - total of 13 documents spanning over 2 years)
Marriage certificate

6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years. None
7. Any Additional Comments.

The experience at the PEO was very uneventful, though had to wait for long. Appointment was at 12PM. My application was prepared by my employer's solicitors so they had a person waiting for us at the PEO. She guided us through the process and we didn't almost have to speak to anyone except pleasantries.

11:45 - entered PEO, went through security and straight to the waiting room on 3rd floor. The room is quite big and open. There's a cafe in the middle where you can buy snacks, sandwiches, coffee etc. There's a play area for kids. Our paralegal took our signatures for the application and some papers that I was carrying and took us straight to the registration area.
11:55 - She got the ticket number, and asked us to wait for registration of the case
14:40 - Our ticket number was announced in the public addressing system
14:50 - Registration was done by the lady at counter. She didn't ask us anything. Actually she didn't utter a single word. Just typed the name, address, payment details and passport numbers from the form into the computers and sent us towards the biometric counter
15:00 - Biometric done. Again very simple process. No questions were asked. Back to waiting room to wait.
17:40 - Our ticket was called again. The paralegal collected the pack and handed it to us and congratulated.

That's it. As I said, very uneventful, but we were there for 6 hours, just waiting. Happy to answer any specific questions.

1. Category: - 6 years DLR to ILR (2x3 years DLR) non- asylum.
2. Number of dependents: - 0
3. Total cost: - £2,999.00
4. PEO, PSC branch: - Glasgow
5. Documents provided: - Documents

Filled SET(O) form
Cohabitation documents -single names, spread 4 months apart covering for the period of leave granted (3 years).

Original Bank statements (9+ months).
Marriage certificate.

Original tenancy agreement with a housing association letter to confirm the current residents in property dated May 2018.

Original employment contract, TUPE notification letters, May 2018 employment letter.
evidence of absences, she provided Airline itenary for the dates outside the UK.
original refusal letter, 2 x 3 year grants of DLR letters.
Pay slips (6+ months) & last 3 years of P60's.
Applicants valid passport & expired, as well as spouse (British citizen) passport.
2 Covering letters, 1 from applicant and the other from the spouse.
Letter of support from family friend.

Transitional arrangements page & exemption for language requirements page where also printed and submitted, surprisingly, the case worker seemed to have kept those instead of returning them back, which would conclude they may have helped, lol.

Photocopies of all the above documents except the application form.

6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years: - not applicable, less than 180 days through out 6 year DLR.

7. Any Additional Comments:
- Preparation in plenty of time is the key in my opinion to a higher probability of an application being successful Keep it simple, to the point.

-ILR approved letter now not given when successful, and BRP card arrives within 7 working days.

-Do not staple, bind, paper clip, put multiple paperwork in folders as this will all be asked for it to be removed, we didn't experience this, but others did at the Glasgow PSC.

-When your application for ILR is successful, you will sign a document confirming your name and address and the type of leave an valid to date for your BRP card. Always make sure you read and check it all before signing, not that we experienced any issue as I had read it all and made sure the type of leave and valid to date both stated INDEFINITE and not something else.

8.Time taken to decide - less than 1.5 hours surprisingly.

1. Category.6 years discretionary leave granted before 9 July 2012 (refused asylum)
i have 3 children i already register as British for my elder son (10 years route)
for other two I was planning to register as British after if we get the ILR (all children was born in UK)
SET(O) from
Number of dependents-1(spouse )
Total cost .£5998.00
PEO branch .croydon
Documents provided.

Set(O) form
2 + 2 passport photo
my current and previous passport
dependent passport +1
BRP 1+1

1. Home office first and second DLR granted letter
2. Home office Guideline page section 10 Transitional Arrangement
3. Home office Guideline page in Regard KOLL
4. Self-employment letter from an accountant
5. Bank statement
6. GP Letter
7. Charity letter (I'm member of UK register charity)
8. Tax credit statement
9. Council tax bill
10. Utility bill (water)
11. British birth certificates (3)
12. British passport (1)
13.COVERING LETTER(EXPLAINING REASON FOR APPLY)

PEO appointment 16/05 2018- 9.30:00 AM.
we late 5 min
Arrived and got a waiting number at 10:10 AM.
First call 11:30 for hand over my applications, got another waiting for BIOMETRIC.
Called for BIOMETRIC at 11:50 am
another call at 1:50 pm with a good news ILR was approved
they returned originals document to me.
delivered BRP 18/05/ 2018
Thanks for this forum, and every single one answering or helping each other.

I will start by thanking each and every contributor on this forum.

Special thanks to @makky86 for replying to my 1st ever post here.

Finally after that long wait received an ILR status!!

1. Category: SET(O) from Tier 2 after completing 5 years
2. Number of dependents: 0
3. Total cost: £3074.00 (Saturday Appointment Out of Hours)
4. PSC branch: Cardiff
5. Documents provided.

• Set(O) form. + 2 passport photo (1 returned ) + current passport + tier 2 BRP

• Life in the UK Cert.

• Master Degree (in the UK)

• 2 months payslips (1 month is enough if you cant manage 2 months) + 2 months bank statement (1 month is enough if you cant manage 2 months)

• Employer's letter (which showed SoC, current salary, absences, authentication of payslips (stamped) and expecting me to continue the employment)

• P60 for the year 2017-2018

6. Absences more than 180 days in any of the qualifying years: Nope
7. Merit Increase documents (not necessary)

A minor issue may be
I had an incorrect endorsement on my passport. An incorrect date was stamped on my recent when I recently arrived in UK (T4) from abroad. To address this concern, I did the following;

• SAR made to UKVI which never arrived.

• Emailed UKVI through complaints describing my concern but was told that the complaint is out of date as they only accept complaints up to 3 months from the date of the incident. I, however, told them to treat this out the remit of complaints as the change needs to be done regardless. The request was considered but till then I had already done below.

• Then called UKVI helpline number 0300 123 2241, who were helpful and asked to contact Border force at Terminal 4. They provided the number to contact. Contacted Border Force on Friday, received a reply on Sunday (surprise!) confirming the discrepancy and asked me to proceed with the application without any worries.

• Also provided a letter from my manager supporting my claim with approved leaves specifically for the year 2017 on company letterhead.

PSC appointment

• 02 June 2018, 11:00 AM. Arrived and got a waiting number at 08:10 AM.

• Handed over my applications at 08:35 am, got a token number for Biometrics.

• Called for biometrics at 09:00 am.

• Another call at 11:05 am with a good news They returned all documents to me except for application form and 1 PP photo.

06-June-2018, BRP delivered @11:12 am. As you may be aware UKVI does not provide you with tracking number but you can find out one by getting in touch with DX directly via their live chat. Be patient as live chat may be unavailable during busy periods. You can also try calling them but chances for connecting to CS is 1/20.

Happy to help anyone with any specific questions!!

Did ur bank statements arrive by post ?