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Married for 3 years, ILR since August, when can I apply?

Posted: Fri May 22, 2015 7:00 pm
by chickadee78
Hello,

I apologise in advance for being seriously confused. In the "Citizenship FAQs" section, it states: "If married to a BC, you can apply the same day you are granted ILR if you meet the spouse requirements which includes 3 years residence. Any legal stay in the UK counts."

I've been married to a British Citizen for 3 years. Does that mean I can apply for citizenship NOW, or do I need to wait until a year from the day I received ILR?

I received ILR on 28 August 2014. Prior to ILR, I was on a Spousal Visa; prior to that, a Post-Study Work Visa; prior to that, a Student Visa; prior to that, a Prospective Student Visa.

I was under the belief that I had to wait exactly one year from ILR, but the information on this board suggests otherwise. Additionally, I thought that certain visas, e.g. spousal, post-study work, etc., were not counted as part of the 3 years' residence.

Can someone please confirm this? I really don't want to waste £900 applying if I'm too early. Thank you so much!

Re: Married for 3 years, ILR since August, when can I apply?

Posted: Fri May 22, 2015 7:13 pm
by Casa
All legal residence qualifies. As long as you meet the standard requirements (absences etc) you can apply now.

Re: Married for 3 years, ILR since August, when can I apply?

Posted: Thu May 28, 2015 11:11 am
by chickadee78
Wow... I have no idea where I read that I needed to wait a full year from receiving ILR, but I wish I knew since it sounds like it was wrong. Thanks for your help.

Re: Married for 3 years, ILR since August, when can I apply?

Posted: Thu May 28, 2015 11:12 am
by CR001
Waiting a full year on ILR is the standard criteria for people who do not have a British Spouse.