Just to update on this, incase anyone finds this thread and is in similar circumstances. I had employer letters (plus one email from a temp agency I used in 2002-2004), as well as HMRC records for the last 7 years to help cover the gap from my missing passport. I finally submitted my application in ...

Had my express appointment yesterday for my ILR transfer to a BRP. Had to wait outside for a while until the 9am queue was due to enter the building. On entering ~8.45, and the man seeing I had an express appointment I was whisked through past everyone else, through security, and was in my appointme...

Thank you, Vinny - this has eased my anxiety slightly. I think it may well be worth applying for citizenship, despite the increase in cost.

Would I then simply need to prove residency for the qualifying period (3/5 years?) rather than the full 17 if I were to transfer my ILR from passport to BRP?

Hi all, So I've finally gotten my butt into gear to transfer my ILR, which I received in 2002, from an old passport to a BRP card (since I've learnt I need this to prove permission to work now - I started my current job before this came into effect, but if I plan to change jobs then obviously things...