Not sure if this has been suggested but perhaps a way to start a pc in lower sanctuary? Would be cool for some concepts and pcs that may attract bad attention in upper upon starting
I believe the DMs generally want characters with a history/background of Lower to apply for it.
Ahh ok
You can also make your start there without DM, just do not take your ring and go down. You can play it like that hooded agent didn't let you.
Applications are required for PCs that are from the pre-reformation Sanctuary, whether from Upper or Lower.
In the future we may open the option to start in Lower for everyone, but for now the setting is not in a place where we desire it. Though as LiAlH4 says, if you have a concept that you feel is pertinent to starting in Lower, or anywhere else for that matter, feel free to try to apply for it.