Entering in UK with HSMP about to expire

[dev79]

Hi,

I have an HSMP which is about to expire like end of this month 28, April 2012. I am planning to visit UK for few days. Am I allowed to enter? Will there be any issues for which I have to prepare or documents which will be required.

Thanks,

[ScopeD]

When you say you are planning to "visit", is it like an ordinary visit to see friends and family or tourist purposes, or is it a visit to arrange for an extension? The ECO might ask questions to see if your plans are to extend the visa. Not sure they will be in favour of you using the Tier 1 General visa for a general visit, but again it depends with the ECO and the quality of your answers to them when you arrive.

[dev79]

Thanks ScopeD, my primary reason of visit is to see family and friends not extending visa. Are there any options to extend visa at this time?

[ScopeD]

HSMP/Tier 1 General visa is issued on the understanding that your coming to the UK is in connection with employment or seeking employment. Once your reason for being in the UK changes (as is the case here), you run the risk of being denied entry. You may want to apply for a visit visa instead to reflect your circumstances (the better option), but as I said earlier, it depends with the quality of the answers you provide to the Immigration Officer. Regarding options for an extension, you will find the UKBA's Policy Guidance helpful. This can be found on http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitec ... idance.pdf

[dev79]

Thanks a lot.