5 year work permit basis - qualifying period

[nshp]

Hi All,

Could someone please share their knowledge/experience? I have an appointment to apply for ILR in just a few days and have a doubt that I can not get rid off. Thanks so much in advance!

I have a 5 year work permit (still with the same employer who issued it). It was issued in summer 2006, following which I applied for visa and got it dated from 25 Sept 2006 - 25 Sept 2011. I eneterd the UK on 9 October 2006 (so no issue with gap between visa and entry). However, I did not actually start work until 15 January 2007 (just over 3 months later). But during this period I was in the UK as a work permit holder and did not have recourse to public funds. My doubt is whether the gap between entry and starting work will be a problem. Called UK BA and they said that no, qualifying period is counted based on enetering UK with work permit so I can apply now, before 25 Sept. Anyone have any ideas if this is definetely the case/had a similar situation?

Thanks again!