Tier 2 extension query

[silverchloride]

Hi there,

I've got a few quick questions.

- When we renew the Tier 2, does the new one start from the day the application was processed or when the current one expires? For instance, if a Tier 2 expires on the 1st of August 2014 and we send the application in June or July. Would the new leave to remain start from the 1st of August or somewhere in June or July (when the application was assessed).

- According to current rules, you can extend the tier 2 by 3 more years, and by the 5th year you can apply for ILR if you meet the requirements or otherwise you would need to go back after 6 years - is this true?

- Lastly, if someone switches an employer after completing 5 years: would they go on a different Tier 2 or can they straight away apply for ILR based on the years they've spent?

Many thanks live always,
S

[North Pole]

It's depends on what date your employer assigns start date of work in your cos for your extension to begin. If they put a data prior to your current leave then from that date only your extension visa begins

Yes, that's true you can extend a tier 2 visa for 6 years only. After 6 years you must leave the country for 12 months as cooling off period. And then re-apply as a new start for tier 2.

Well you can switch to a new employer if they offer you sponsorship. But that visa would be for a maximum of 1 year. Because you would have completed 5 years in the same category(tier 2) with your previous employer. Best things is to get ILR done after 5 years with same employer. And ensure you would be eligible.

[silverchloride]

It's depends on what date your employer assigns start date of work in your cos for your extension to begin. If they put a data prior to your current leave then from that date only your extension visa begins

Yes, that's true you can extend a tier 2 visa for 6 years only. After 6 years you must leave the country for 12 months as cooling off period. And then re-apply as a new start for tier 2.

Well you can switch to a new employer if they offer you sponsorship. But that visa would be for a maximum of 1 year. Because you would have completed 5 years in the same category(tier 2) with your previous employer. Best things is to get ILR done after 5 years with same employer. And ensure you would be eligible.

Thanks for the helpful response. But isn't it the case that we can stay on Tier 2 for 6 years at max? Or can it only be 5 and then ILR?

[North Pole]

Tier 2 is allowed for a max period of 6 year only. And It depends with your company HR for start and end date. You could either get 3+3 years. 3+2 years. 2+3 years. If you have 3+3 years then it's give you more time to get your ILR done during your sixth year. If it's 5 years you should be applying at the end of current leave or 28 days before expiry of current leave. Hope this helps.