ILR on HSMP Judicial Review with more than 6mo outside UK
Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2011 5:06 pm
Hi all,
I'm wondering if anyone has experience with this.
I applied for an HSMP prior to April 6, 2006, was approved, and am now here on a Tier 1 visa. As such, I am eligible to apply for ILR under the HSMP judicial review.
Problem is, I've spent 245 days total outside of the UK since I first entered. I am a freelance writer and travel frequently as my job allows me to work from wherever I choose. I also frequently write about travel and so taking trips is par for the course. The bulk of my time away stems from several long 20-50 day trips to the states. However, while away I was working the whole time for my UK clients and continued to pay rent, taxes, etc.
Can someone help clarify the rules on this? Am I better off applying for an extension on my Tier 1 and waiting to apply for ILR when I've reached a time period at which I have spent less than 180 days outside the UK for a 5 year period? Or can I justify my time away somehow?
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the matter.
With thanks,
Monica
I'm wondering if anyone has experience with this.
I applied for an HSMP prior to April 6, 2006, was approved, and am now here on a Tier 1 visa. As such, I am eligible to apply for ILR under the HSMP judicial review.
Problem is, I've spent 245 days total outside of the UK since I first entered. I am a freelance writer and travel frequently as my job allows me to work from wherever I choose. I also frequently write about travel and so taking trips is par for the course. The bulk of my time away stems from several long 20-50 day trips to the states. However, while away I was working the whole time for my UK clients and continued to pay rent, taxes, etc.
Can someone help clarify the rules on this? Am I better off applying for an extension on my Tier 1 and waiting to apply for ILR when I've reached a time period at which I have spent less than 180 days outside the UK for a 5 year period? Or can I justify my time away somehow?
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the matter.
With thanks,
Monica