Set(M) - When is an application classed as received

[elche56]

Dear Forum,

Really appreciate some help on a Set(M) application for ILR - 5year spouse route.

A recent bereavement put us a bit behind preparing this. Our current spouse visa is valid until 17th April 2018.

We have the form and documents ready to send by special delivery so the home office will receive them on 12th April

I have seen posts on here about issues with payments being declined by DD bank cards and credit cards also. I am also aware that if payment is declined the home office class the application as, "never having been made" - which if happened to us would mean any subsequent application would be after the expiration of my current visa and this could complicate matters.

Hence was planning to pay by cheque.

The question is if the home office receive the application on Tuesday 12th April and they say 5 working days for a cheque to clear would that mean that they would say the application has technically been 'received' on the 18th April (12 April + 5 whole working days) or do they class the application as 'received' when it arrives with them on the 12th - but they do not begin 'processing' the application till 18th thus it would not matter?

Any thoughts or advice gratefully received.

Thanks

Che

[Casa]

The date of application is the date posting. Send by registered or recorded delivery and keep the receipt.

[elche56]

GRACIAS Casa

Really appreciate your reply.

I'd read on other posts that the date was when posted but then the HO 'muddy' the waters by saying things like they won't begin 'processing' an application until after payment clears - and then you begin to wonder!

Will certainly be posting special delivery and will be keeping proof of posting.

NB - love this forum. It's been a huge help to me in preparing this application