I’ve been in the UK for 11 odd years. It’s been almost 1 year since I have IRL. I’m about to apply for BC, but I have a shady period during my stay here. Despite my IRL is completely legit, I understand what’s legit for IRL is different from naturalisation application. Here’s my background:
- I originally came to the UK on a Working Holiday visa from Canada in Feb 2007
- I had a Work Permit in Nov 2008 with Employer A
- In August 2010, I was bullied at Employer A and was unlawfully dismissed dispite I was the one being bullied. They sent me a p45 but never notified UK Border Agency. I never filled law suit for my unlawful dismissal due to fear of deportation and tried to look for new sponsor quickly. I was still freelancing with Employer A for a few years after this but not as full time employee.
- I then started freelancing through an agency Employer B in October 2010 (period in question begins)
Through Employer B (the freelancing agency) led to working for Employer C (still paid by Employer B until Tier 2 granted) in January 2011.
- Tier 2 (General) was granted with Employer C in September 2011. The visa has took a long time due to with legal issues — Employer C had to get rid of this employee whom I was replacing, the employee dragged out legally for a long time, therefore they couldn’t sponsor me until things were clear with this employee.
- Tier 2 (General) with Employer C was extended in September 2014
- IRL was granted on 14 August 2017. I currently still work for Employer C.
I paid all taxes (even during period in question), no public funds
Never been declared bankruptcy or arrested otherwise.
I think I might have overstayed and have worked legally during August 2010 and September 2011 with Employer B. Does this means I would fail the good character requirements within 10 years despite I’m disclosing my employment history? Should I take the chance to apply now hoping someone won’t cross reference the dates with employment or should I wait until September 2021 to apply?
Also, I had my Life in the UK test in 2017 would this still be valid if I choose to wait until 2021 to apply?
I’m so confused, I've waited so long but yet feel too far! Any advice or someone who had similar experiences appreciated.