How early can one apply (to extend visa)?

[Final]

Hi all,

I have a few questions hope you can help with the answers:

1. How early can one apply to extend the HSMP to Tier 1 visa?

2. Can one apply 2 months before expiry?

3. Has anyone successfully applied 2 months before expiry and what reason was given?

My HSMP expires in November but I would like to apply in August or September and get it out of the way ASAP so that I can travel in November. The IND website is not clear cut on when the application should be made

For applications made inside the United Kingdom
If you are already in the United Kingdom, you should apply to stay as soon as possible and before your current leave runs out. We encourage you to apply one month before your leave runs out.
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/worki ... owtoapply/

Thanks in advance,

Final

[MyHSMPApplication]

There are loads of discussion already in this forum.
Please use the search functionality to look at them.

In short, I had applied 6 months prior and got it without really providing any reason for early extension.

Cheers
PG

[ChetanOjha]

1. How early can one apply to extend the HSMP to Tier 1 visa?

UKBA says you should apply within 28 days of your expiry but that is not mandatory.

2. Can one apply 2 months before expiry?

Yes you can apply. People in this forum has even got extension even before 6-7 months. And most of the people were granted visa from the last date of their current leave.If you are ready to apply 2 months before apply. This will save you some good night sleep.

3. Has anyone successfully applied 2 months before expiry and what reason was given?

To apply just before two months, you don't need to give any reason. Just apply.

My HSMP expires in November but I would like to apply in August or September and get it out of the way ASAP so that I can travel in November. The IND website is not clear cut on when the application should be made

You are all good to apply. I would suggest to apply atleast before 2-2.5 months before. So you have enough buffer to re-apply should something go wrong.

[Final]

Excellent...thanks all!!!!

1. How early can one apply to extend the HSMP to Tier 1 visa?

UKBA says you should apply within 28 days of your expiry but that is not mandatory.

2. Can one apply 2 months before expiry?

Yes you can apply. People in this forum has even got extension even before 6-7 months. And most of the people were granted visa from the last date of their current leave.If you are ready to apply 2 months before apply. This will save you some good night sleep.

3. Has anyone successfully applied 2 months before expiry and what reason was given?

To apply just before two months, you don't need to give any reason. Just apply.

My HSMP expires in November but I would like to apply in August or September and get it out of the way ASAP so that I can travel in November. The IND website is not clear cut on when the application should be made

You are all good to apply. I would suggest to apply atleast before 2-2.5 months before. So you have enough buffer to re-apply should something go wrong.