Refugee Settlement ILR Criminal Record Question

[seventythree]

Hi,

I will soon apply for refugee permanent residence (ILR) in two weeks time, and I have a question about the criminal record part of the application. I have a criminal record, as I arrived at the UK without a valid travel document to apply for asylum but I was stopped by the immigration officer and transferred to the court. I pled guilty at the court and I was in prison for three months. I was granted refugee status while in prison. My conviction was entering the UK without a valid travel document. I would like to know the following:


1. Will this record affect my ability to get permanent residence?

2. As I was in prison before I was granted refugee status, do I still need to say 'yes' on the application form to the question that asks if you have any criminal convictions?

3. Is there any way to clear this record?

4. If it can be cleared, how long does it take to clear this criminal record, and with who?

5. Will this affect applying for U.K. citizenship?

6. Does anybody have a similar case? Please, I need help urgently.

Please note, I am due to apply at the end of December as my 5 years' refugee visa is expiring at the end of January.

Thank you very much in advance, I appreciate your help.