criminal record

[a19]

Hi. A friend of mine wants to apply for British citizenship, after being here from 2005on a work permit dependant visa, no longer needed as his country is part of European Union country now. In 2008 he was given a fine in court in uk after driving whilst talking on the phone. So I believe that was spent in 2011, hoping that the recklessness is not taken into consideration. Prior to this, he was convicted outside uk, of robbery for 3months, which he did 2 months for, in 2002 -appeal date and initial conviction date 2000. He got involved in a fight when being 20years old in a club and was accused of stealing another young man's wallet. This conviction was spent in original country a long time ago and also here in 2009. No need to apply for permanent residence as lawfully being here for more than 5years. Does he though stand any chance to gain British citizenship? He has worked really hard since being here, paid all his taxes, studying even to make a better future for himself.
Also, when acquiring his visa in 2005, this was not spent and visa was granted.
Thank you. Your response would be very much appreciated.

[Amber]

Should be ok. Declare both convictions and include something in extra information to show reformed person, I.e. Not a persistent offender.

[a19]

Thank you for your prompt reply. Can you please tell me as well if in the form when applying, under section 6.declaration by applicant, point 6.6:"I declare that although I do not meet the requirements, ....."he should tick this and add at point 6.7the extra information why he feels he is a reformed person? Or just add the info earlier on and not tick the point 6.6? Thank you again.

[Amber]

He needs to declare his convictions in 3.6, 6.6 & 6.7 are N/A, extra information should just detail how he has been 'good' since his last conviction.

[a19]

Thank you again. One more quick question, really sorry to be so insistent: would the date of conviction for the robbery conviction be the initial court date in 2000 or the appeal one in 2002? We understand it is the initial one. Can you please confirm?
Regards

[Amber]

The date in which he was sentenced.

[a19]

He was sentenced in the initial date first and then because he took it further in the appeal sentenced again. He went to prison after the appeal sentence. Not really sure....
Thank you again

[Amber]

The appeal replaces the earlier verdict so 2000.

[a19]

Thank you for taking the time to reply to all my posts.
You have been incredibly helpful.
A sincere thank you again.
Regards