Does time spent on visa exemption vignette sum up with Tier 2 visa for IRL?

[burkov]

Hi, I've spent 2 years in UK on visa exemption vignette and about to change the job for a Tier 2 visa.

If I spend 3 more years on Tier 2, does this sum up with my time, spent here on visa exemption vignette?

Another question: If I change the employer with Tier 2 visa, do I have to start the 5 year period over again?

[CR001]

What visa exemption?

[burkov]

I'm working in an international organisation EMBL-EBI, which provides a visa exemption vignette - it's like a diplomatic visa.

[CR001]

I don't believe it counts for ILR based on 5 years residence. On tier 2, only the tier 1 visa can be combined to make up 5 years to qualify for ILR.

[burkov]

I know that working on Visa Exemption for 5 continuous years counts.

[vinny]

What makes you think that?
Under what provisions will it count?

[burkov]

What makes you think that?
Under what provisions will it count?

That's what our HRs say. A colleague of mine applied for a citizenship after 6 years like that.

[mapasa]

Hi burkov, were you able to find out any information regarding this?
Thanks