Entry into the UK on a Work Permit - Query on Dates

[kunal]

Hi,
If I am travelling to the UK on a work permit issued on February 28th, I have until August 28th to enter the country, right? Entering on August 26th shouldn't be a problem, I hope.

Thank you.

Cheers,
Kunal

[Markie]

May I ask why so late in coming into the UK?

[sakura]

For how long is your WP valid?

[kunal]

Well, my employment actually starts on August 27th. My employer applied for the permit as early as February. The permit is valid for 5 years.

Thanks.

Kunal

[kunal]

Markie, Sakura? Your advice please!

Thanks.

--
Kunal

[jbinuk]

I personally dont see any problem with that however, your ILR clock will only start once you entered UK. Which means by the time your 5-yr work permit expires, you need to have it extended and also your leave to remain. That will mean extra costs..and also 5 yrs from now, immigration laws might have been changed that will affect you.

That's my opinion...senior members might have a more professional advise.

[sakura]

jbinuk,

That's what I was thinking.

Why did you apply so early for the WP? I don't know about whether or not WPs have entry dates, but for ILR (yes, waaay down the line!) you will have to extend your WP (or whatever other visa you are on subsequently) should you wish to meet the 5 year requirement.

Unless you nab a British rose!!

[jbinuk]

If you planning to stay and live here permanently, I believe you have just compromised your 5-year work permit. As I have said after when that 5-year WP expires you need to renew and re-apply for FLR in order to complete 5 years..but with the way BAO/HO are implementing retrospective changes, you might get into problems and that will mean 4+ years you've completed will mean nothing. You also need to think about the scenario that if you wont be lucky to get an extension of work permit.

I hope you get my point.