Risk of Overstay: Switching Visas After Expiry?

Hello everyone,

I'm currently in a complicated visa situation and I would appreciate some advice from those who are familiar with UK immigration rules.

Background:

• I was on a Tier 2 Skilled Worker Visa but quit my previous job.

• My visa was shortened to expire on September 15th.

• To avoid overstaying, I applied for a Partner Dependent visa on September 10th, expecting to fall under the 3C rule.

• However, I received a new job offer today (September 11th) that could lead to a new Tier 2 Skilled Worker Visa.

Questions:

• Can I apply for the new Skilled Worker Visa inside UK after September 15th, given that it may take some time for the CoS number to be assigned and HR logistics?

• If I withdraw my Partner Dependent Visa after September 15th and submit the skilled worker visa immediately (lets say September 20th), would that be count as a overstay?

• Could I withdraw my Partner Dependent Visa application and switch to the application of Skilled Worker Visa without breaking any rules inside UK, after Sept 15th, with my current visa expires?

• Would I qualify for the rule for late applications that the Home Office will disregard a period of overstaying provided a new application is made within 14 days of the previous leave expiring and the applicant can evidence ‘good reason’ for having overstayed?

• Lastly, will this transition affect my continuous stay count for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

I prefer the Skilled Worker Visa route as it would maintain my continuous time count toward ILR eligibility. Your thoughts and experiences would be invaluable in helping me navigate this situation.

Thank you in advance!