Jambo- I've called yesterday to inquire about travelling whilst they consider my application and was told that there was no initial checks done on my application. I've called three times the past 9 weeks and was told something different every time
Its difficult not to moan when Having to travel for business and wait on the HO to randomly make up their mind. My ILR took 45 minutes to process and to be stamped on my passport when applied in person, whilst it took my colleague 7 month when he applied by post. This proves that the actual work and checks needed to be done can be accomplished within the hour but its just the massive pile of applications with not enough staff to process them. I feel for the HO officers as they must feel pressured 24/7 at no fault of their own.
When I order my £15 Dominos pizza online, I am able to track if its being prepared, baked or in transit to my house. On the other hand, I have no clue about my £900 citizen application- which is clearly much more important and expensive. Awaiting for 3 months to hear a reply with no indications or regular updates what so ever is unfair and very stressful. We have the right to know what is the process and why arent the HO taking any tangible actions to reduce the waiting times? I appreciate that obtaining a citizenship is a privilege, and I am honored to belong to this country-my wife and children are Brits.
What Security checks takes so long? Am sure pigeons are obsolete at this modern age. Have they not got internet to communicate with other government bodies? I think this whole security checks is a scapegoat to cover up for the insufficient number of staff to process the heaps of application. The HO seems to be good at rolling out new fees and applying it within days but fails to deal with the after math of that. Looking at applications form January, 5 weeks from submitting application to receiving passport! What has severely changed since then? I am our applications are still going through the same general process.
I am happy to pay double of what I've paid and get that decision made within days. Otherwise, the HO should allow people to apply 2 months prior to eligibility date so when the time comes the HO will have all their boxes ticked and process the application on time for the applicants. So if you're due it in Feb 2011, you get it in Feb 2011 not in July!
Rant Over.
Sam
