Dear members,
Happy to share good news with you. My application was approved following 5 months waiting.
I would like to thank all the members for their support - it was truly invaluable (not just now, but over the past 5 years!). Please keep posting, even if you think you won's add much - it does help! Every little tip helps!
As a good read on some part of my story, please navigate here http://www.immigrationboards.com/uk-tie ... 16324.html on this forum.
To cut long story short, here is my timeline:
Date application posted: 18.05.2016
Application received and signed at Sheffield HO: 19.05.2016
Confirmation later dated 25.05.2015 received with the biometrics request on 28.05.2016
Biometrics enrolled on 31.05.2016
IHS part refund of £200 received on the payment card on 24.08.2016
25.08.2016 Wrote first letter to HO requesting to dispatch decision and docs back to my address
After some days calling them, I was then provided by the HO with the wrong tracking number for docs to be received (someone else's tracking number for their application), on 13.09.2016. HO stated my docs ended up with the wrong person in another city, i travelled there, met the person that day, and then we confirmed to HO through the call they did not receive my docs at the other address.
14.09.2016 the case got escalated to the senior case working team to deal and find out where my docs were and why other person tracking id got associated to my account. DEtails were logged by the agent on the phone. I want to say agents might be very helpful, some more helpful than others.
14.09.2016 wrote second letter to HO asking to find my docs and contact me asap on my email/ mobile
Daily calling the number to check your visa status. Number is 0300 123 2241 (calling there really helps and works, if you insist all the time on what you need. Also try different people, some are more responsive than others!)
15.09.2016 received an email from the senior case working team at sheffiend (related to the logged call) confirming docs were with them and not lost, case not decided/ not completed/ pending etc. etc.
19.09.2016 received a call from the HO relating to sent letter that case was with them etc - same info but in writing.
07.10.2016 decision letter dated and posted
09.10.2016 all docs received (collection at post office as i missed the delivery) - decision letter and all docs/ passport in one pre-paid envelope i provided.
Waiting for the biometrics card at this point. I should say that i called the HO again to check status, and they still have it on the system that decision is not made, "please keep waiting". A bit messy there.
All docs were quite standard, many checklists here on the forum. Just read carefully the guidance, prepare your case, do not trust lawyers and accountants do it for you - you are responsible for your case! I did consult with lawyers and accountants, and I am thankful to them for their valuable input, but it is your case and responsibility. I did not use them to apply. Also, i believe the way you present your docs is of paramount importance - i had all arranged by different clear files, all with sticky notes on the top pages to provide checklist what's inside - so it was easy for HO to navigate and read. I also submitted my cover letter, explaining past 10 years of my immigration history, my education and career, and my future plans with business. Also a letter from university confirming i was a good character and from some business partners that we are genuine company etc.
Happy to answer some questions.
SR
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