Help with ILR please

[abudream]

Hi there,

I have few questions that I would be most grateful if someone can help me with. I was on permit free training visa until february 2003. I received the letter of approval for WP on 14/01/2003. I sent my passport and it took 2 months for the work permit to be stamped on the passport 13/03/2003 (valid until 31/01/2004). I subsequently got HSMP visa

1- when I apply for ILR, do I use the date on the WP approval letter, or do I use the date it was stamped on the passport to calculate my five year period?

2- I got married in April 2005, my wife joined me in July 2005. would she be able to apply for ILR as my dependant?
because she was still studying back home, she had to keep on going back home over the last 2 years. would that have an impact on her application?

3- in view of the above, would you think that it is better to go with postal application or go in person to explain any questions?

thank you for your help

abudream

[SYH]

The date your EC was stamped by immigration when you entered the UK

[vinny]

1. I think that you should use the date (13/03/2003) that was stamped in your passport and not the approval letter date.

2. Yes, provided she satisfies the requirements of paragraph 196E

[abudream]

thank you very much for your help all