Urgent: Can I extend my Tier 2 visa beyond five years?

[GSOtodd]

Can I do this. My reason is that due to a breakdown in communication, I began working (with a new work permit) at a new job for the first sixth months without further leave to remain. I was working under my old leave. I began this job in January 2006 and should I had proper further leave, I could have applied for ILR in January 2011. However, I was scared to do that. Now, my last extension indicated that when I finish my current leave which will be in July 3rd, it said that it will take be "well beyond my five years total in the UK". So, should I go ahead and get another extension to my Tier 2 if I can (is this allowed) or, should I just go ahead and apply for ILR in June 2003.

[geriatrix]

Are you currently on WP or Tier 2 leave?

[GSOtodd]

Hi,

I extended my work permit back in June 2009 under Tier 2 transitional arrangements, so I'm on the Tier 2 visa.

[geriatrix]

Assuming you are a Tier 2 (General) migrant, you should have no problem in applying for extension provided you can fulfil the specified requirements (e.g. - CoS etc.).

1. To apply for settlement is a choice, not a compulsion.
2. No one can tell you for sure that, if you apply for settlement now, whether the caseworker will dig deep into records concerning your employment during the "qualifying residential period" (5 years) to figure out that you were in breach of immigration rules. There is a risk, and it is up to you whether you wish to take the risk or avoid it.