Switching from Tier 2 (General) to Tier 1 (General)

[serendipity]

Hi,

I have just been given a Tier 2 G visa (which my employer paid for).

In light of the recent announcement by the gov't I would like to switch categories and pay for the visa myself.

1) Would my employer be annoyed or think that it is a sign that I am planning on leaving the company?

2) I came to the UK in 2005 to study. In 2008 I got my Tier 1 PSW visa and now am on Tier 2 G. Has my ILR period started when I got my tier 2 visa? Will it be counted if I switch categories?

Thanks.

[vinny]

Has my ILR period started when I got my tier 2 visa?

Your five year qualifying period under Tier 1 may start when you got your Tier 2 leave.

Will it be counted if I switch categories?

Yes.