UK residency for long-term resident: A 74-year-old Ghanaian retiree who has resided in the UK for nearly half a century is now confronted with a ten-year wait for permanent residency, as per Home Office regulations, the BBC has reported.
Nelson Shardey, a resident of Wallasey in Wirral, always believed he was considered British due to his long-term stay and contributions to the UK. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that he discovered his actual legal status, which necessitated significant fees for him to continue residing in the UK and accessing the NHS, despite a lifetime of tax payments.
The Home Office has not provided any comments regarding his ongoing legal battle. A Home Office representative stated that it would be inappropriate to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.
An Unexpected Realization
Mr. Shardey arrived in the UK in 1977 on a student visa to study accountancy, which allowed him to work as well. Following a political upheaval in Ghana, his family was unable to continue sending him funds, compelling him to take various jobs.
He worked in several industries, including baking and chocolate production, without ever being questioned about his residency status.
According to the report, he married a British woman, established a news agency named Nelson’s News, and settled in Wallasey. After his first marriage ended, he remarried another British woman, with whom he had two sons, Jacob and Aaron.
Shardey dedicated himself to providing his sons with the best education possible, encouraging them to be self-reliant. Both sons graduated from university and pursued successful careers.
Unquestioned Life in the UK
Mr. Shardey’s life in the UK was seemingly unquestioned; he obtained credit, a mortgage, and even performed jury service. His contributions to the community were recognized in 2007 when he received a police award for bravery.
In 2019, he sought to renew his passport to visit Ghana after his mother’s death, only to be told he was not British and had no legal right to remain in the UK.
Financial and Legal Hurdles
The Home Office advised him to pursue a 10-year settlement route, costing around £17,500, inclusive of NHS access fees. For Mr. Shardey, recovering from prostate cancer, this financial burden is insurmountable.
This feels like a punishment,” he expressed, lamenting the unfairness of the situation. He shared his deep investment in the UK, both personally and professionally, highlighting how he never doubted his right to stay.
In 2021, Mr. Shardey mistakenly filled out the wrong form when trying to extend his stay, apparently in pursuit of the 10-year route. Due to this error, he restarted the 10-year process in 2023, thus delaying his permanent residency until he turns 84.
Legal Battle and Community Support
Supported by Nicola Burgess from the Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU), Mr. Shardey is challenging the Home Office’s decision in court.
His family is raising funds through crowdfunding to cover legal costs. The case argues that Mr. Shardey’s long-term residency and community service warrant an exception to the standard rules.
Ms. Burgess emphasized that Mr. Shardey’s situation is indeed exceptional, with at least one caseworker suggesting he should be granted indefinite leave to remain, according to the BBC report.
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