Set (M) 5 years time and absences

[nice111]

Hi There

Can anyone please help with below dates and let me know when is the earliest we can apply for Set(M).

04-02-2014: Initial FLR(M) (In country)

27-11-2014: out
18-01-2015: In
53 days: Absence
---
20-01-2016: Out
17-03-2016: In
58 days: Absence
---
29-07-2016: FLR(M) Extended
04-02-2019: Valid untill
---
04-04-2017: Out
10-04-2017: In
7 days
---
27-01-2018: Out
03-03-2018: In
36 days: Absence

TOTAL ABSENCES: 154 days

I would appreciate answers for the following questions.

1. Am I correct in counting absences and are they ok for Set(M)?
2. Do we need to pay Health Surcharge for Set(M)?
3. When is the earliest date we can apply for Set(M)?
4. What is this fuss about PS appointments, I called HO and they said all centres are fully booked?

[Casa]

Hi There

Can anyone please help with below dates and let me know when is the earliest we can apply for Set(M).

04-02-2014: Initial FLR(M) (In country)

27-11-2014: out
18-01-2015: In
53 days: Absence
---
20-01-2016: Out
17-03-2016: In
58 days: Absence
---
29-07-2016: FLR(M) Extended
04-02-2019: Valid untill
---
04-04-2017: Out
10-04-2017: In
7 days
---
27-01-2018: Out
03-03-2018: In
36 days: Absence

TOTAL ABSENCES: 154 days

I would appreciate answers for the following questions.

1. Am I correct in counting absences and are they ok for Set(M)? NO. There is no absence limit for this category. You are only required to show that the relationship is subsisting.
2. Do we need to pay Health Surcharge for Set(M)? NO
3. When is the earliest date we can apply for Set(M)? 28 days before the expiry date of the current visa.
4. What is this fuss about PS appointments, I called HO and they said all centres are fully booked? Read through the information in the numerous threads regarding the new online system which has replaced the PSC

[nice111]

Thanks CASA, Much appreciated.