currency is vital to pass the sim ride
1. There are some turbo prop operators who do not require anything more than the minimum. Furthermore I think GB air, for example, have taken on some competent Jerez students onto the airbus.
2. What is important is to remain current, otherwise when you come for the sim ride those skills which you had to pass the IRT will be, to say the least, rusty.
One hour in a FNPT 2 every two weeks is essential to keep those IF skills in shape.
3. The FI route is a good way to keep current, even if the pay is less than what a FO would receive.
4. The bottom line is that you are wasting your time applying to any airline unless you are current. The longer you go without sim or flying, the less likely you are finding yourself in the right hand seat.