Though I should point out that using the NCS does not make you jump the queue in any way, and that if you get a certified copy of your passport there is really no advantage to using them (above getting a very basic, not always accurate, document check).
Vicky, we have disagreed about this before, and we continue to disagree. But I accept that UKBA does maintain that applying via NCS does make no difference to the amount of time an application will take.
However the UKBA website does say about NCS :-
This service has been very popular since its introduction in 2005 as there are a number of advantages:
- last year only 2% of applications made this way were unsuccessful. This compares with 10% refusals for other applications;
- you can keep hold of your documents (like your passport) - we can, however, request the originals if we need them.
The anecdotal evidence, from boards such as this, is that whilst there will be exceptions, in both categories, the average NCS-filed application is dealt with quicker than the average postal-filed application .... whatever UKBA say.
We normally aim to process all citizenship applications in 3-6 months and normally receive approximately 500 applications for citizenship a day. Last week we received approximately 1100 per day so your waiting period may be longer.
Very helpful Chrissy. It just illustrates what pressure the Citizenship unit in Liverpool is having to cope with. I think it also shows the sheer quantity of applicants applying now who have not just become time-qualified to apply now, but who became time-qualified months or years ago, and want to ensure that they get their British Citizenship before the conditions for that get much tougher.
