Tier 2 visa extension duration

[BravoCharlie]

Hi,

I got my Tier 2 visa on 26/10/2020. However, due to Covid-19, I arrived in the UK on 13/01/2021. My Tier 2 visa is going to expire on 26/10/2023. My questions are:

1. In order to be eligible for ILR, should I apply for extension of my visa for 2 years or 3 years?

2. If I apply for three years, but become eligible for ILR after 2 years and 3 months, will I get a refund for IHS fee for the remaining duration?

Thanks.

[CR001]

Your delayed entry will count towards the 180 days in any 12 month absence limit, just so you are aware.

1. It depends what your employer chooses to do in terms of length of cos

2. No, you do not get a refund of ihs if you apply for ILR.

[BravoCharlie]

1. It depends what your employer chooses to do in terms of length of cos

Many thanks for your prompt response, CR001.

My employer will be happy to give me 2 years or 3 years CoS if I request them.

The question was more about my eligibility for ILR. If I extend my visa for 2 years i.e. up to 26/10/2025, will I be eligible for ILR on 26/10/2025 (as my first visa started from 26/10/2020) or do I need to extend it for 3 years (since I entered the UK on 13/01/2021 and will become eligible for ILR on 13/01/2026)?

Thanks.

[CR001]

Your qualifying period for ILR starts from the date your initial visa was granted. The delay in entering the uk will count towards the absence limit.

[BravoCharlie]

Your qualifying period for ILR starts from the date your initial visa was granted. The delay in entering the uk will count towards the absence limit.

That's great. Many thanks : )