Switching from contract to permanent job

[josh_smiith]

Dear Gurus,

Currently I'm employed as a software developer on a contract basis.I hold a TIER 2 general visa which is sponsored by an umbrella company. Last week my employer offered me a permanent role. I've some urgent queries so if you guys can help me out, it would be very much appreciated.
1) Do I need to pass the RMLT (Resident Labour Marker Test )?
2) The employer doesn't hold a TIER 2 sponsor license yet. How long will it take to get a license and what is the ideal date for the making an application in order to receive a response from the UKBA in the same month ?
3) If RMLT is required, can my employer simultaneously apply for a license and post an advert for the job for the RMLT ?

Would greatly appreciate your suggestions in this scenario.

[josh_smiith]

Guys can you please reply. It's urgent and your suggestions will help me !!

[aja]

1) Yes

2) Attaining sponsorship license involves mainly 2 things:
a) Filling in the online application
b) Sending the required supporting documents as specified by ukba sponsorship guidance.

They key here is to send all the documents correctly the first time, which will minimize the delay.
Once the above 2 steps are completed, as per UKBA timelines, the stated time to obtain sponsorship is 4 to 8 weeks, but as i said if
all the documents are correct the first time, the process should be take lot lesser.

3) RLMT can be conducted simultaneously, as RLMT is valid for 6 months.
Again the key is to make sure the RLMT is conducted as per the guidelines and screen shots as proofs are maintained.

[josh_smiith]

Thanks a lot aja !
I really appreciate your response. I would like to know about the resignation process as well. I'm thinking of
1) Applying for a new Tier 2 general VISA from my current client.
2) After I've received my new VISA, resign from the old company.

Is this fine ? Would like to hear your suggestions regarding the safest option. Thanks !

[abid4u]

Yes, that would be the safest approach - secure the new visa first and then resign from the existing job.

[josh_smiith]

Thanks a lot !