Travelling while citizenship app in progress

Hi,

I've had ILR for a year and now I've just applied for UK citizenship. I am between contracts now and would like to travel for a month or two. I understand I need to attend ceremony promptly if and when my application is approved, and will ask a friend to check my mail while I'm away.

But my question is this: can I travel for a month or two without invalidating my ILR?

I intend to keep my flat, accounts, etc.

I searched around and cannot find an answer on this forum.

Thanks a lot!!

Travelling for short periods whilst a citizenship application is pending should be fine.  The only thing you need to make sure of is that you are present in the UK on the day the Home Office RECEIVES your application. Presumably you applied using the NCS, or you wouldn't still have your passport?

Thank you Malcolm,

yes I applied via NCS and Home Office received the application today (per royal mail tracking). Anyway I'm leaving in 8 days.

So is 2 months a short period of time as far as ILR is concerned?

Thanks!

You only lose ILR if you leave the UK for over 2 years.

If they've received your application and you're leaving in 8 days, there's no problem leaving the UK for 2 months. You just need to be physically present in the UK the day they receive your application. It will take around 2.5-3 months (or even longer in some cases) to get approval and absences from the UK after you submit your application aren't counted towards your residency requirements for citizenship.