Post
by marcnath » Wed Oct 31, 2018 11:38 pm
1. You can vary your application to ILR(LR). In fact, you can only vary it BEFORE a decision is made. If the decision has been made (even if you have not been informed yet) you can't vary your application. So, you should do the variation earlier rather than later.
2. What you can't do is to use the Premium application process. You have to vary by post. Once the variation is accepted (you get new biometrics) you can write in and ask to be upgraded to the Premium process.
3. You should be able to get your passport back for the purpose of applying for a new passport. As long as the intention is not for travel, you can request the passport back temporarily without your application being withdrawn. But there is a chance that they will stop all processing of your application until you return the (old and new) passport to them.
My comments are in no way meant to be advisory. I have no professional knowledge of immigration. These are based on my own experience, convictions and personal interpretation of publicly available information.