Is it less than 5 years for a spouse of British citizen?

[ritz2020]

Hi Experts,

As per my understanding, being the spouse of a British citizen, the fastest process of obtaining the British citizenship is a 5 year route -
1. BRP for 2.5 years
2. Further leave to remain for another 2.5 years
3. Apply for Leave to remain/PR once you complete 5 years
4. You can apply for citizenship as soon as you receive your ILR/PR

I have 2 questions here-
1. I would like to know if my understanding given above is correct?
2. Can I apply for citizenship after 3 years (instead of 5 years) as per this article - https://www.gov.uk/apply-citizenship-spouse (Is FLR (M) is not considered as ILR in this scenario?)
Thank you in advance.
Ritz2020

[CR001]

Immigration Rules and Nationality Laws are completely separate and independent of each other.

For citizenship she needs ILR, which requires 5 years residence since the rules changed from 2 years spouse visa to 5 years requirement in July 2012. FLR(M) is Limited Leave to Remain NOT Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

If you are British, then once she has ILR she can apply for citizenship immediately as the spouse of a British citizen, which is based on a 3 year residence qualifying period.

[ritz2020]

That makes sense - thank you