I've searched this forum for a guide/roadmap on how you should apply for nationality e.g. dates, requirements, documentation etc. This will also help me because I will be applying for my citizenship this month. I would appreciate it if people on the forums could help me gather all the info. At the moment I have the following questions (mods if you don't think this is a good idea I am happy to change this into a personal Q/A thread). Later on I will update this and make it a generic guide, and maybe then it could be made into a sticky.
Would appreciate any help - thanks !
Ta
Here is a little background on the important dates :
1. Entered the UK on the 19th of May, 2001, Started employment on the 20th.
2. Got HSMP on 5th Aug 2004 (work permit was valid until 14th May 2005)
3. Got ILR on the 22nd of April 2005.
4. I've usually 20-19 days holiday two times an year (so in total I've had ~ 160 holidays within 4 year.
5. After geting ILR I have not been out of the country for more than 90 days (just 19 days)
6. wifey has been out of the country for 88 days after ILR. Wifey entered Uk on the 22nd of Feb, 2003.
7. Left my job on the 17th of December 2004 to take a break (and in pursuit of better opportunities
). I got a new job on the 14th of March, 2005.So here are my questions:
1. What is the maximum duration for out of country stay, for a) Before ILR, b) After ILR (it's 90 days, just want someone to confirm)
2. How soon can I apply for citizenship (I reckon 20th of May as the rule is 5 years in country + at least 1 year on ILR). I think wifey cannot apply as she would not have completed her 5 years with me (as she arrived much later). Although, she does have ILR. I saw someone mention on this forum that the wifey CAN apply for citizenship as soon as I get my citizenship (e.g. the wife of a british citizen, with 3 years in UK/Dependent).
3. Citizenship test (Life in the UK): I haven't tried booking the test. I got the book from Amazon (New and Used) for £9.45 delivered. I reckon I should book the test for the 17th of may (will give me ample time to prepare + get my documentation in order ?)
4. The application forms - I need to know: a) Where to get them - links on the ind website would be nice b) Can I download them? c) Any prerequisite forms ? d) If I cannot download them, how long before I can get them in post ?
5. Any tips/hints on how to fill the forms (if you can recall any) e.g. pitfalls, do's and don't etc
6. What documentation would be beneficial (aside from the ones specified on the nationality forms) ?
7. Where to book an appointment for an NCS walk in center ? Fees ? Experiences ? Documentation Required ? In my case I think I should book an appointment on the 20th ?
8. Oath stuff (later - will update this thread)
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