How far back do Home Office visa application records go?

[te23]

I require information like dates for old applications and thinking of applying for a SAR.

[contorted_svy]

I did a SAR recently and thelast 5 years were covered (not for trips though, they only covered 4 years). Application dates may not be necessary though, the naturalisation form for example specifies "if known".

[alterhase58]

I require information like dates for old applications and thinking of applying for a SAR.

If this is for naturalisation then just provide details you have or remember - some data is "if known".

[te23]

I did a SAR recently and thelast 5 years were covered (not for trips though, they only covered 4 years). Application dates may not be necessary though, the naturalisation form for example specifies "if known".

There was no information at all on older applications (if there were any)?

[secret.simon]

Also see this stickie thread that covers the same topic and has some links that may be useful.

Of course the Home Office would only have applications made to the Home Office on their database. If applications were made to other government departments (such as to the DWP, for benefits), that would not be covered by a SAR to the Home Office.