Can I apply one year early for extension?

[sachin01663]

I got Tier 1 visa in July 2008 for three years and got my first extension in April 2010. I moved to UK in Feb-2009 so I will not be eligible for ILR until Feb-14. My question is how early can I apply for extension again?

My job has been put at risk of redundancy so to avoid risk, I want to apply for extension ASAP. Can I apply for extension almost a year before its expiry?

Its a tricky situation. If I get few months break in employment in the last year, it will be difficult to qualify for earning points.

Thanks for any help.

Sachin

[Lucapooka]

Can I apply for extension almost a year before its expiry?

Yes, you can apply at any time.

[sachin01663]

Thanks.

Will I get visa again for two years ( I have already extend it once)?

Do I need to give any good reason why am I applying a year early for extension? (Actual reason is redundancy and I can not take the risk to find another job within a months time.

Thanks-Sachin

[anjalimaj]

I heard that u may have to give proper reasons for applying early like "Employer need longer visa validity for business reasons" or "Travelling abroad" and you want to provide proofs like Employer's letter mentioning it (which may/may not be feasible in your case) or tickets,... When i called customer care, they said if u apply earlier, there are chances they may not accept ur appln. but in forums, many ppl have got successful visa without any issues. I guess it is case worker based.

[pegakrishna]

Thanks.

Will I get visa again for two years ( I have already extend it once)?

Do I need to give any good reason why am I applying a year early for extension? (Actual reason is redundancy and I can not take the risk to find another job within a months time.

Thanks-Sachin

One friend of mine applied a Tier 1 visa extension year earlier prior to visa expiry. No Questions asked by the case worker.

Note: IMHO,Questions may be asked at the discretion of case worker. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best

[rakeysh.patel]

You can apply for extension early, no problem with that. It would be good to have a valid reason for sure in order for it to be considered by CW in positive manner. If you have already extended it once, aren't you qualified for PR yet?