Will ESA be affecting my naturalisation application?

[mrboo]

Hy guys;

About two years ago I've been injured and lost a significant amount of sight (registered blind nowadays), and since then I couldn't get any employment due to ... well ... my inability to perform a regular job.

Last year in April I decided to apply for employment and support allowance (contributory based at the beginning - and income based now), and I've been placed in the support group for the maximum period of time. Around the same time, I have applied for DLA as well and I've got a life award. Relying on public funds would be my last option - but as I was running low on money - the circumstance pushed me towards it.

Would there be an issue if I would decide to apply for naturalisation?

Any advice would be greatly welcomed.

Thankfully yours,

[CR001]

Would there be an issue if I would decide to apply for naturalisation?

No there won't. Once you receive ILR you can claim what you are entitled to. Employment is not a requirement for naturalisation.

[mrboo]

CR001 that is very helpful and I'd like to thank you.

ILR - I don't have indefinite leave to remain. I came to UK for the first time in 2001, and I have returned every year for 9 months on a business visa, but from 2010 I managed to secure a full time job, and I lived here ever since.

In May it would be 5 continuous years living in this country - in which I had been absent for less than 150 days. There aren't any stamps in my passport, as I'm from EEA.

If they'll refuse my application as "being a burden on the social security system", could I challenge that decision as discrimination against a disability acquired while I was performing my job?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

[CR001]

You need Permanent Residence for 12 months before you can apply for British Citizenship, which makes a total of 6 years before eligible for naturalisation unless you are married to a British citizen, but you will still need PR.

Not sure about the benefits you received in terms of you qualifying as a person exercising treaty rights. Perhaps one of the other moderators could advise.