Tier 2 ICT to Tier 2 General

[Galal]

Dear Sir,

I understand this topic has been discussed in many threads, yet there are some points I wish you can clarify.
I am Egyptian, I came to the UK Jun-2015 on a T2 ICT ST. On Jun-2016 I was granted a T2 ICT L2 expiring on Jun-2021. My wife joined me in October-2018 on an ICT dependent via, her BRP expires on Jun-2021 as well.

1. If I wish to switch to new employer who is willing to provide new CoS and T2 General, I will do this from my home country, but does the 12 months cooling off period considering I haven't stayed for the full 5 years on the ICT LT? Is there any other way of switching employers

2. If cooling off period does not apply in the above and I change to T2 Gen or I resign and leave the UK for the 12 months (cooling off), does that mean that my wife dependent visa is terminated or can she stay on the dependent visa until the date on her BRP Jun-2021

3. Before the expiry of my visa, if my wife switches to T2 General and I switch to her dependent for 12 months, would these count as a cooling period, therefore I can apply for T2 Gen after 12 months from getting the dependent visa, or do I have to be 12 months out of UK

4. Considering the immigration rules expected, do you expect any changes to the cooling off period and settlement application for ICT

Thank you very much in advance for your help.

Kind Regards
Galal

[CR001]

1. Yes, the 12 months cooling off applies and has nothing to do with how long you have been on ICT, it is the ICT visa that dictates this not the duration of residence. No other way for you to switch to main Tier 2 general unless being offered a salary of £159,600pa.

2. Your dependent cannot stay in the UK if you leave and your ICT visa is cancelled.

3. Yes, 12 months on a PBS Dependent visa is the 12 months cooling off. You would then have to apply for Tier 2 from home country.

4. No change expected, it has been in place for a number of years now.