Turkish guy who wants to say God Save the Queen! help needed

[Ali984]

First of all a little about me:

I am a Turkish national on ILR since March 2010.
I’ve entered the UK on a student visa in 1999.
5 years of secondary education (GCSEs + A-levels) and another 3 years of higher education (graduated with a BSc in 2007) and since 2008 I have been a self-employed person under Class 2 NI.

I’m fully aware that I could have applied for naturalisation in March 2011. However I didn’t, don’t ask me why I don’t know, very Turkish of me I suppose. And just realised that five years ago in 2006 I went on my longest holiday until September 2006 (for four months!) So technically speaking I can’t apply for naturalisation until end of September 2011.

My question is:

I’ve heard rumours that the Home Office might change the standard requirements for Naturalisation for people switching from ILR. The rumour is that the 1 year waiting-gap under ILR will be increased to three years. So people would have to wait for three years after obtaining their ILR if they wanted to apply for naturalisation.

Anyone else heard about this? And if so, do you know whether they are planning to do this change before September 2011?

Please somebody tell me I’m not too late!


My other two questions:

* If I’m lucky enough to apply in September 2011, how long will it take for my application to be finalised? It took six months for my ILR application.

* Do I have to send my passport to Home Office? I’ve heard that I can get my passport checked at HO verification offices? Is that so?


Many thanks in advance.

[ferrarilondon]

Just spent little bit more time searching on this forum, you will get all the answers. about changing in nationality process nothing has been finalised by the HO

[Casa]

The BC application check and send is handled by the National Checking Service (NCS) run by your local council, not the HO.

[Ali984]

Just spent little bit more time searching on this forum, you will get all the answers. about changing in nationality process nothing has been finalised by the HO

Thanks for your answer. So I really shouldn't worry at this stage if I'm applying in September?

Yeah I had a look at the forum, it basically takes no more than 2-3 months for BC application. and unlike the ILR application I don't have to send my passport if I get it checked at NCS.

[Ali984]

The BC application check and send is handled by the National Checking Service (NCS) run by your local council, not the HO.

How long does it take to get an appointment, do you know?

thanks.

[Casa]

It depends on the NCS. It may be wise to shop around as some are busier than others or are open fewer hours. You can use any NCS you choose.
Before you prepare your application in September, make sure that the form is the most recent.