Switching from HSMP to Tier 1 well before LTR expires

[Cane]

My LTR expires Nov 15 this year. Can I go ahead and apply to switch to Tier 1 status now? Presumably, this will give me 3 years LTR from now instead of having to wait till Nov 15?

I'm in the 1+3+1 category and Nov 15 is when I reach 4 years from initial EC approval.

Many Thanks
Cane

[captor]

I have the same question

I think people used to apply early before and it was ok. but I don't know now.. you might need to give the BIA a reason for early extension. otherwise they might turn your application down and lose 750 £ ..

Did you ask BIA?

[Cane]

Just found out that BIA Homepage has the following guidance:

"If you are already in the United Kingdom under the HSMP, you should transfer into Tier 1 (General) of the points-based system when your initial permission to work in the United Kingdom ends."

So, I guess I need to wait till the usual 4-5 weeks prior to LTR expiry.

-Cane