Thanks! Yes the same lawyers. They submitted the BOWP again with the PR in late October 2020 (after the original was declined).

They've explained he's not in any kind of status but is permitted to stay here until the application decision.

Yes on processing indications, though we haven't gotten to medicals yet. PR application was received November 2021. It was sent back due to lack of police check in late summer (they were mistaken, they were just confused because he hasn't been back to the UK since 2018 so it appeared old but still applied).

It's been a wild ride... I just don't know if he needs to submit anything for taxes this year and if I "declare" him on mine.