I have been in the UK since August 2005 initially as a student then found love of my life and got married, happily married for 5 years now.
I got my Indefinite Leave to Remain in October 2012. Considering only the time scales I do qualify to apply for British Citizenship. But I have a couple of convictions which I am not sure whether it will cause any issues while my application for citizenship is being considered.
1. In January 2008 I was given a FPN CU80 using a mobile phone while driving. Three points on my license and £60 fine.
2. In 2011 I was pulled over by the cops using an ipod while driving and was told it is same as using a mobile phone, so I decided to go court and contest it, later on I did some more research and found out its not only mobile phone but its any hand held device hence I was guilty, long story short, I appeared in the court and I pleaded guilty, I was handed out 3 points and £65 pounds fine.
Now my question is can I apply for British citizenship now since it has been over 3 years since I was convicted or do I need to wait for 5 years for my rehabilitation period to over and the conviction to be considered spent?
I have rang the home office helpline and the person suggests I can apply, but I have also spoken to a couple of people with some knowledge of immigration and some said I can apply and some said I will have to wait for 5 years .
could you please put me in the right direction as I am very confused with all the different advices coming my way
. cheers thank you.
Mo