Considering switch from Tier2 to Tier4 for studies, can my wife preserve 5 year streak as dependant though?

[Wonderberry]

My family is in UK in our second year with me being Tier 2 main applicant and my wife/daughter under dependant visas. I am considering getting education, which, as I understand will entail me switching to Tier 4. I also understand that I cannot sum Tier 2 and Tier 4 years during my 5 year ILR route - is that right? And also, if I can't, maybe my dependant wife can?

Thank you!

[vinny]

That's correct.

There's no ILR path under Tier 4, except at least 10 years continuous lawful residence under Long residence. If you switch back to Tier 2, afterwards, then your qualifying period of ILR under PBS will be reset.

Moreover, the question of whether your wife preserves her 5 years streak as a PBS dependant is moot, as she cannot qualify for ILR prior to the PBS Migrant, except under Long residence.

[Wonderberry]

That's correct.

There's no ILR path under Tier 4, except at least 10 years continuous lawful residence under Long residence. If you switch back to Tier 2, afterwards, then your qualifying period of ILR under PBS will be reset.

Moreover, the question of whether your wife preserves her 5 years streak as a PBS dependant is moot, as she cannot qualify for ILR prior to the PBS Migrant, except under Long residence.

Thank you for your answer.

[Djsuccess]

My family is in UK in our second year with me being Tier 2 main applicant and my wife/daughter under dependant visas. I am considering getting education, which, as I understand will entail me switching to Tier 4. I also understand that I cannot sum Tier 2 and Tier 4 years during my 5 year ILR route - is that right? And also, if I can't, maybe my dependant wife can?

Thank you!

Depending on the type of education and why you want it, you don't have to change to Tier 4. You can remain on Tier 2 and do a part-time course. with that, you can get your education while you continue to work full time.

[vinny]

That's a good idea.