Tier 2 to ILR

[Eli1986_UK]

Peeps,

I couldn't find an answer for this question. I came to the UK in 2014 and completed my 5 years this Aug. I would like to know if I switch companies now, do I have to start my 5 years again with the new company?

The gov website doesn't say anything about this as it says, should have completed 5 years.

My current company is in transition phase and have not committed to provide me an employer letter as of now, that says my services are required in forseesable future so i switch company now, will i be still eligible to apply for IKR this year or do I have to wait for another 5 years?

[CR001]

I would like to know if I switch companies now, do I have to start my 5 years again with the new company?

No you don't.

Remember that you cannot hold a tier 2 visa for longer than 6 years continuously.

[Eli1986_UK]

Sure, I was under the impression that I cannot hold a tier 2 visa continuously with the same company but wasn't sure it's overall six years so what if my new company offers me a job now, I still have a year to complete my 6 years so if they provide me an employment letter, will that be accepted?

[CR001]

Sure, I was under the impression that I cannot hold a tier 2 visa continuously with the same company but wasn't sure it's overall six years so what if my new company offers me a job now, I still have a year to complete my 6 years so if they provide me an employment letter, will that be accepted?

There is NO rule that for ILR it must be the whole period with the same employer. You can change jobs once you get a new tier 2. All tier 2 in the 5/6 years counts regardless of how many employing sponsors you have had, provided you meet all the requirements. The rule is you cannot hold Tier 2 for more than 6 years. You can apply for ILR after 5 years.