British dependent Child complete 8 years extension or nationality

[Maten5]

We entered the UK as dependants of a British citizen in year 2018. After our first extension, we were granted leave under the 10-year long residence / private life route. We have now completed a total of 8 years of lawful residence in the UK.

My child is currently 17 years and 5 months old. Note:child born outside the uk.

I would like to know:
1. Whether my child is eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) at this stage.
2. Whether my child can apply directly for British citizenship (naturalisation) or a British passport.
3. Whether my child should apply for a further extension as a dependant or under any other route.
4. What would be the best and safest application route for my child considering age and immigration history.

I would be grateful if you could kindly advise on the most suitable option and the next steps.

[secret.simon]

2. Whether my child can apply directly for British citizenship (naturalisation) or a British passport.

No. The child, being born outside the UK, is expected to have ILR before British citizenship. There is no shortcut to allow them to jump that requirement if they are not born in the UK or to a British citizen by descent parent.

The child, if they are on a dependent visa, will continue on the same pathway as the second/less-privileged parent and will need to apply for ILR with them.

As the child will be above the age of 18 by that time, they will need to naturalise as a British citizen on the same terms as other adults (after one year of ILR, meeting the English language and LITUK tests, the relevant absences and physical presence requirements, etc).

And yes, they will need to take an English language test unless they have completed a degree course in the UK. Schooling in the UK or studying for a degree course won't count.