Tier 2 visa and overseas secondment - extending Tier 2 visa

[gajang]

Hi all,

I am currently in the process of applying for my Tier 2 visa out of country. I have received my CoS and now just have to make the visa application etc. I had been working for my employer for 2 years now, but had to leave recently due to my old visa expiring. I will be returning to UK to work for same employer. My employer has now offered me a 12 month secondment opportunity outside of UK, with the intention I work for 12 months outside of UK in a new business location for us, and then return to UK.

What I would like to know about is how this would effect ILR in the future. I believe I need to be in UK for 5 years to apply for ILR. If I am away for 12 months, and the Tier 5 visa is valid for 3/5 years, this wouldn't be possible. I believe the Tier 2 can be extended to maximum for 6 years? Is it possible to extend the Tier 2 visa beyond this?

Thank you in advance