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Requesting original docs back

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 9:51 am
by kel
Hi guys,

I made my application for British Citizenship on 10th July via post. Though I was aware the NCS option was available, I did not realise that I could keep my original docs if I had used this service. I thought it was only there to assist you in completing the form etc. As I didn't think I needed this assistance, I made the application via post instead.

At present I have no immediate plans to travel though I still have 4 weeks unused holiday days from work which I intend to take off between now and the end of the year.

My question is, approximately how soon after making the application do you think is reasonable to request your original docs back and will it cause any delay to the application process. I am not sure I will go down this route to be honest, but was just curious in case this process is taking too long.

Plsd to hear your views, thanks.

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 10:28 am
by Glc

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 11:44 am
by kel
thanks, though abit unclear. is the attached saying you can only request your docs back after 3 months of submitting the application?

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 12:15 pm
by Glc
It seems that that is the case. Although I read in one of the posts here that passports are returned after 2-3 weeks. Having said that, I suggest that you give them a call now and tell them that you're due to travel in the next 2 weeks. That way, they will be prompted to return your passport to you immediately

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 12:32 pm
by kel
Glc, many thanks for your reply. I will give them a call between today and the Friday and see what they say. Bearing in mind I only applied on 10 July, not sure how they will take my request. I dont want to risk my application being delayed even more. I will let you know what they say after I speak to them.

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 12:49 pm
by jms_uk
Glc wrote:It seems that that is the case. Although I read in one of the posts here that passports are returned after 2-3 weeks.
I think that is the case for the passport applications, not the naturalisation ones.

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 12:55 pm
by kel
oh i see

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 12:55 pm
by Glc
ThanKs for clarifying, jms_uk

Kel, I guess calling and informing HO of your travel plans will prompt them to return your passport. I suppose that they would readily inform you should they still need it once you speak to them. Good luck

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 1:03 pm
by kel
thanks. i will give them a call, though i have no immediate travel plans, but i will use it as an excuse to call. which is the best number to call them on?

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 2:20 pm
by Glc
number is 0845 010 5200

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 2:38 pm
by kel
thanks Glc

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 4:45 pm
by kel
i tried calling earlier and was on hold for about 15 mins so gave up. will try again tomorrow

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 8:38 pm
by barnaby
kel wrote:Glc, many thanks for your reply. I will give them a call between today and the Friday and see what they say. Bearing in mind I only applied on 10 July, not sure how they will take my request. I dont want to risk my application being delayed even more. I will let you know what they say after I speak to them.
Also see http://www.immigrationboards.com/viewtopic.php?t=108497

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2012 8:42 pm
by kel
thanks barnaby!