iceCold wrote:LondonFilmFan wrote:I spoke to the UKBA today to try to find out what was happening. They stated how there was an MP involved (as if I didn't know that already) and eventually told me that the application had yet to be "completed", which when I asked for clarification on that, it meant that there's been no decision yet. She also mentioned their goal of clearing the backlog by the end of summer, which she went on to state was by "the end of September". Of course, there are no guarantees that will happen, she added.
I also tried to get an email out of them (or a letter) stating that I cannot receive my passport back without withdrawing the application. I need this to show to the US Embassy in order to try to get an emergency passport. She put in a request for this to happen, but again, no guarantees.
I cannot get over how useless this agency is.
You CAN get your passport without withdrawing the application. The website gives wrong info, but when I called they said you can request any document back which will be sent back within 20 working days. Also they mentioned if in case they need the passport back later during the process, you should sent it right back to them.
My solicitor said that I couldn't, but I had a call from a caseworker yesterday. Several calls really, to determine what would be the best way forward, as to renew a US passport, it takes 4 weeks. This is because the old passport needs to be sent to the Embassy, who in turn send it to the US. All proper passports are printed in the US and then sent out.
Now, because my case is rather complicated, I didn't want to risk that my passport gets lost somewhere in the shuffle (it contains a vital endorsement) and I didn't want to further delay the decision-making progress. They were apparently willing to allow me 2 months to return the passport before the application is withdrawn. While, I suppose that's generous of them, the fact is, I've already been anxiously waiting 9 months for an outcome. The last thing I want is to extend that wait any longer than necessary. Unfortunately, he couldn't tell me when a decision might be made. So it's frustrating, but he did say that he'll be sending me a supporting letter to take to the Embassy.
I guess we'll see. I just so desperately want this to be over