Naturalisation Route Questions

[worker12]

Firstly, apologies if this isn't the right board, secondly, apologies if it's a bit of a ramble.

I'm looking for some advice and reassurance.

I'm Irish, living continuously in UK for 18 years. My wife and step daughter are Colombian nationals and currently live with me.

My wife joined me in August 2006 on a 6 month UK Clearance Visa to "join spouse". She then applied for and received a "Residence Card of a Family Member of an EEA National". This was valid from October 2007 to October 2012.

My step-daughter joined us in June 2008 on a 6 month UK Clearance Visa as a "family member". The visa named her Mother but not me. She was under 18 at the time, now over 18. She then applied for and received a "Residence Card of a Family Member of an EEA National". This was valid from February 2010 to February 2015.

They've both completed the Life in the UK and English language tests and are about to apply for Naturalisation as a British Citizen.

My step-daughter has recently received a letter from Capita, on behalf of the Home Office, advising her that her right to remain has expired and asking her for reasons for being unable to depart the UK.

I was under the impression, wrongly, naively, whatever, that having had the 5 year card and living here for 6 years entitled them both to apply for Naturalisation. Am I correct? Do they need Permanent Residence or Indefinite Leave to Remain first?

I would appreciate any and all help.

Thanks

[fwd079]

Q5 in this link.