Tier 2 to ILR - Advice please

[amanhydra]

Experts and Group members, need your advice please. Have some queries on Tier 2 to ILR.

I have looked through FAQs for ILR - WP/Tier 2/HSMP/Tier 1 - Read before posting http://www.immigrationboards.com/indefi ... 79378.html

I have a Tier 2 valid until mid-May 2014 and planning to apply for ILR. My current employer will provide necessary documents.
However, another company is ready to offer me a job and is ready to sponsor before my current expires.

1. Is it possible for them to apply for a sponsorship as I think Tier-2 cannot be extended more than 5 years? Not sure if this rule applies for 'a single' sponsor.

2. I can assume they (new company) will be ok if I would prefer an ILR which would mean I would have to switch companies before my current visa expires. I believe that would be a breach of my conditions or is there something to cover this?

Please let me know your thoughts/recommendations.

Thanks.

[dk2011]

You need to give required information before someone can guide you . When was your tier 2 VISA issued for the first time ? When do you qualify for ILR ?

[amanhydra]

When was your tier 2 VISA issued for the first time ? When do you qualify for ILR ?

Tier-2 Issued - May 2009
Extension - May 2012
Eligible for ILR - May 2014

Let me know what else is required please.

[dk2011]

You said your current employer is ready to give you necessary documents . Get your ILR first . You can switch job anytime after that.

[amanhydra]

Thanks. I realise switching post ILR is possible anytime. I am trying to see what options are there (if any).

Any thoughts from other experts/members?

[physicskate]

Think about it this way - realistically, it takes AT LEAST two months to change jobs (RLMT, if applicable, time for application, notice period, etc...) by which time it will be the beginning of April. With one month to go before ILR, is it worth the stress and hassle to you??

If the answer is 'yes' go for it, change jobs. However, do not resign from your current post until you have your new BRP. If your new Tier 2 were to be refused for some reason, you would be a bit stuck...

You can be on Tier 2 for more than 5 years.

[amanhydra]

Think about it this way - realistically, it takes AT LEAST two months to change jobs (RLMT, if applicable, time for application, notice period, etc...) by which time it will be the beginning of April. With one month to go before ILR, is it worth the stress and hassle to you??

If the answer is 'yes' go for it, change jobs. However, do not resign from your current post until you have your new BRP. If your new Tier 2 were to be refused for some reason, you would be a bit stuck...

You can be on Tier 2 for more than 5 years.

Thanks and nicely put.

I have still not got an answer from the prospective employer but it makes sense to not resign until I have the new BRP.