HSMP Extension

[DTM]

I have and been working in the UK for the last 18 months and was granted an HSMP Visa last year. Two months ago I changed emloyers have just been granted a 5 year work permit after my employer applied for the permit for me.

Will I still be eligible for an HSMP 3 year extension at the end of this year when my initial HSMP visa would have been up for renewal?

[f2k]

when your employer applied for your WP, did you change your leave to remain? if your LTR is still based on your HSMP then you probably can but it is now changed to your WP and therefore expiring in 5years time then i am not sure. this is quite interesting so please keep us informed if you come across more information

[Kayalami]

Interesting scenario - what was the rationale behind the work permit application given you had HSMP status and renewal would not be an issue given your economic activity?

Technically if you are granted FLR based on the new WP then your HSMP FLR/ visa is superceded - the caseworker may or may not mark your ppt to this effect. Come HSMP renewal time then there is no HSMP visa as such to renew and the application can be refused on the grounds that is is not in accordance with the immigration rules. The WP is valid for obtaining FLR within 6 months of issue - IMHO I would sit out the remaining months (3?) to HSMP renewal.

Best to get another opinion from a reputable immigration lawyer/ consultant.

[DTM]

Thanks Guys for your responses. I had actually changed my LTR, so I may be in a fix. Anyway I will just reapply in a few weeks time and see what response I get.

If the worst came to the worst I may have to bank on the new rules re: In-Country switching which come into effect from the 1st of October. Again the question is if they are to treat it as a switch and assuming the swith is approved, are they going to give me a 1 year visa as is the case with 1st time HSMP successful applicants?

[aromated]

Hi DTM
Its really strange, having HSMP already gives u the right to work, so waht was the rationale for applying for work permit. You should have stopped ur employer for applying to WP for u.
Any how it was a wrong decision, so move cautiously in future.
Best of luck