ILR application - Any other names

Hi All,

I'm applying for ILR 10 years route. I've a question about filling that part of the application "Any other names".

I'm known among my friends and at work by a nickname. I also use that nickname for media and press activities such as twitter and publish under my nickname.

Do I need to declare my nickname on the application? I didn't change my name legally and all the documents I'm providing have my passport name. I wonder if I should or shouldn't. I don't want to complicate my application but also don't want to look like I'm hiding information. Please advise, thank you.

Regards,

The any other names refers to official names and NOT to 'nicknames', for example a woman that changed her surname after marriage OR a name change by Deed Poll.

Thank you for your reply CR001.

Would it make a difference if I declared it anyway? I did it because it says "You must provide all your names. For example, if you changed your name after marriage or have a different name that you use for professional purposes."

Because I use my nickname at work and publish using that name, I thought it's considered as a professional name and should declare it. I answered No to this "If you legally changed your name, when did you do this (if applicable)?" because I didn't legally change it. It seems that they expect you to have a different name that's not legally changed. What do you think?

You then risk delays as HO could ask for official evidence of this 'other name' that doesn't match your passport.

I see, I'll take it out to avoid any delays. Thanks again.

Final thought on this and a question. Does this affect any future application (e.g., naturalisation) when I want to prove that I've strong connections in the UK and of a good character (by showing that I'm a published author and contributing to society)?

Not really no. You simply need to meet the requirements for citizenship as stated in the rules.