when best to apply for naturalisation

[splashing]

Hi all, I need your help re the residence requirement.

I came into the country as a student in 2006, had my graduation in Nov 2007, after which i applied for hsmp – my hsmp visa was stamped in my passport dated 22nd January 2008 for 2 yrs, extended for 3 yrs in Jan 2010 (Tier 1 Gen) and on Jan 11 2013,1 got my ILR.
Now my question is – do you think I can apply for naturalisation by jan 12 2014 or wait till jan 22nd which would exactly 5yrs as the form says you must be residing in the country exactly 5 yrs when application is received. The truth is I was already in UK but my hsmp had not started running. I only had the approval letter. The visa was not issued yet.

Pls help

many thanks

[cricinfo]

Hi all, I need your help re the residence requirement.

I came into the country as a student in 2006, had my graduation in Nov 2007, after which i applied for hsmp – my hsmp visa was stamped in my passport dated 22nd January 2008 for 2 yrs, extended for 3 yrs in Jan 2010 (Tier 1 Gen) and on Jan 11 2013,1 got my ILR.
Now my question is – do you think I can apply for naturalisation by jan 12 2014 or wait till jan 22nd which would exactly 5yrs as the form says you must be residing in the country exactly 5 yrs when application is received. The truth is I was already in UK but my hsmp had not started running. I only had the approval letter. The visa was not issued yet.

Pls help

many thanks

You can apply on 12th of Jan provided you meet other standard requirements. Stay as student also count towards residency.

[splashing]

Many thanks Cricinfo