Advice Needed: Tier 2 Visa Application Process & Travelling

[thebigchill]

Hi everyone, I have learned so much on this forum and am thankful for all the generous posts and sharing of information. I need some advice from someone familiar with Tier 2 application / immigration rules.

Brief background of my situation:
- Currently employed on Tier 2 (General) visa expiring on 10 Feb 2020 (1 month away);
- Offer of employment received from a different employer (accepted; RLMT passed);
- Unrestricted COS expected to be issued between 20 to 31 Jan 2020; however
- I have travel plans abroad between 22 Jan 2020 to 02 Feb 2020 (returning to UK on 02 Feb 2020).

My main question from the above therefore is whether I am allowed to travel during that period, assuming I have not made my visa application before I leave the UK / during travels, even once the unrestricted COS has been issued (which will likely be during my period of travel). I have been advised by some that travelling is ill-advised, but other legal experts commented there should be no issue with travelling, provided when I return on 02 Feb 2020, I will have to make my visa application immediately as soon as I return to the UK. I was informed as long as I "submit" my visa application online within the week commencing 03 Feb 2020 (before 10 Feb 2020), I will not be breaking any immigration rules, including if my visa appointment or decision has not been made by the point of my current visa expiry (10 Feb 2020). Is my assumption correct? I am just concerned I am cutting myself too thin or may have the wrong view and will end up breaking immigration laws.

Any advice on the above would be greatly appreciated!

[CR001]

Free to travel.

[thebigchill]

Thanks - I thought so! Is my assumption regarding the visa application correct? I.e., the online submission within the country is considered having made an application, notwithstanding I haven't made my appointment (for biometrics, etc.)?

[CR001]

Correct, once submitted and applied online you should not travel.

[thebigchill]

Thank you very much for your help - greatly appreciated! This forum is a life saver .