Refugee ILR Application Lawyer and time scale?

[NormanBergundy]

Hi Everyone,
Thanks to so many people posting on this topic, I was able to compile and submit my application for Refugee ILR at the end of my 5 years.
My situation
Single gay guy from Pakistan, no criminal record or convictions and no other immigration issues.
I applied a little early after explaining about the nature of my work and the need for early application and received a confirmation from Home Office that I could apply early.

I included a cover letter explaining the circumstances haven't changed as well as a support letter, home office country guidance for sexual orientation as well as some news clippings.
I am a little worried if this will all be fine as I did not hire a lawyer and simply compiled the application myself. (the lawyer was asking for £1000 for a seemingly simple application).

Has anyone applied recently and received their decision? Any idea about time scales? Was it a bad decision to do it myself instead of engaging a lawyer?

Also I was told by the lawyer, I'll have to apply for a new Travel document after I get my BRP, is this correct?

[CR001]

How early before reaching 5 years did you apply?

There is a lengthy topic on Set(P) applications, link below.

indefinite-leave-to-remain/set-protecti ... -1720.html

Currently taking between 5-9 months.

Yes you will have to apply for a new travel document once you get ILR.

[NormanBergundy]

I applied on 17th October and I was supposed to apply on 14th November. (I sent a letter to Home Office and they confirmed I could apply early and I attached the correspondence with the application.)

Is there any way to fast track this process a bit. I work as a contractor and my employer cannot extend the contract without the right to work. (Home Office told me I could use the Application reference code for this check but I am a contractor and they cannot give me an open ended contract according to HR which makes sense.

Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

[NormanBergundy]

Just to update I received my Biometrics letter today on 27th October. i also got an email with Case ID on 25th October. I will be finishing the biometrics submission tomorrow.

Fingers crossed.

[NormanBergundy]

Still waiting for a reply. I cannot believe the Home Office is taking this long to process a very simple and straight forward option.

[NormanBergundy]

Finally got my visa, waiting for the BRP now.

[CKXGP]

Many many Congratulations for u r ILR Enjoy you are Freedom Now Have you received U r BRP???

[NormanBergundy]

Nope, still waiting. The letter states should wait 10 working days from when the letter is issued. So the time is up tomorrow as the letter was signed 5th February.

[CKXGP]

thanks for the reply, did they mention any restrictions for travel in this later?

[NormanBergundy]

No. The BRP states 'Refugee Settlement' and Indefinite leave to remain.
I don't think you should apply to get your national documents (that defeats the purpose of asylum really)