5 years: Which period is counted?

[sppc42]

Hi,

When an ILR application is submitted, then which 5 year period is counted? 5 years immediately before the date of the ILR application OR 5 years from the date of entry (irrespective of how much time one has spent in UK)?

The reason I ask this is because after my first entry to UK, I got the job offer and went back to India for 46 days to complete my Indian job's notice period etc. So, that many days of absence in my 180 period grant. Thus, if I apply for ILR a bit later than 5yrs in UK (I understand I might need to have a third extension on my visa to go beyond 5yrs), then will my 5yrs be counted immediately preceding the date of the ILR application? If that's so, I can easily discount these 46 days.

Please let me know if that will work.

Another query somewhat unrelated to above (didn't want to start another thread for it) : For my paid leaves of absence outside UK, do I need to furnish an employer letter for those to prove they were paid leaves or just the fact that I was in employment at that time would suffice?

Thanks
sandy

[geriatrix]

1. 5 years immediately before the date of the ILR application.
2. Letter from employer.

[sppc42]

Thanks for the speedy reply, appreciate it!

So that means I can happily avoid the 46 days of absence by applying a bit late for the ILR.

Thanks
sandy[/u]