2 Yrs WP +3 Yrs HSMP (inc. 1 Yr Full Time MBA) = ILR? Urgent

[jatstheword]

Hi All,

I have an urgent issue. I originally came to the UK on a WP in 2004, then converted to HSMP (post April 6, 2006), did a 1 Year Full Time MBA from Cambridge in 2007-2008 and have been working full time since then.

So basically, my clear cut 5 year ILR eligibility (2 Yrs WP + 3 Yrs HSMP) gets complicated due to the fact that I did my MBA on my HSMP visa for 1 whole year. Although having said that, I had arranged for all the funding for my MBA myself and my wife was working full time during my MBA so we were more than self sufficient.

Can you please advise if this invalidates my ILR eligibility or am I still eligible for ILR ? Also, since I need the ILR urgently due to personal (medical) reasons, I was wondering if you could advise if my case is clear enough to apply through a Public Enquiry Office (fast track)?

Many thanks.
Jatstheword.

[bani]

I don't see why this would be a problem. You are allowed periods of unemployment on the HSMP visa. So you should get ILR. However, it's a risk to do this at a PEO, case may be found complicated enough that they can't decide same day and will make you wait anyway. Might as well make a postal application.

[jatstheword]

Hi Bani,

Many thanks for your reply. What you say makes a lot of sense. I guess I will make a postal application instead of going directly to a PEO. Would you advice that I apply myself or apply through an agent/agency ?

[bani]

I'm not sure if an agent can speed up a postal application (they certainly can apply for you at PEO very quickly). I would ask around, if you don't want to be without your passport for 2-4 months. Good luck.