Over a month ago I had a question about police registration and I found this forum very useful, so have been meaning to share my experience but didn't have the time. I'm finally posting my timeline
17th of November: applied for the 1st time
5th of December: got my documents back along with the letter saying that my application was invalid (I forgot to include my police registration certificate)
5th-9th of December: panicked loads as I realised that I had registered with the police a year too late and forgot to update them on one of my addresses which I stated in the application form, etc.
9th of December: made a fresh application
9th of January: got my visa (till 5th of January 2012)
My advice to everyone who is in the same boat: don't panic, chances are you won't get refused on the general grounds and you'll be alright! But don't take any chances either, always remember to register with the police, it will save you lots of stress in the future!
I have just one last question:
Before I got my visa I was expecting a letter asking me to enrol my biometric details and apply for ICFN... However, it never happened and the letter that came with my passport did not mention it. Now, is that some sort of a mistake on their part and is it worth telling them about it? I mean I have enroled my biometric details at the embassy back home when I was applying for my student visa and I don't particularly want an identity card but can I get 'punished' for not having one?
Is it compulsory even if the HO don't ask you to get one?